Anthony Thompson First Top-10 Basketball Recruit in 16 Years Commits to Ohio State

Anthony Thompson, a highly rated five-star small forward from Ohio, has committed to Ohio State for the 2026 basketball recruiting class, marking the program's highest-rated recruit in over 15 years. Thompson, ranked among the top 10 prospects nationally and the No. 1 in Ohio, chose Ohio State over notable programs like Indiana, Kentucky, Texas, Michigan, and Purdue, citing strong relationships with the coaching staff, especially Coach Jake Diebler, and the team's supportive environment. Thompson's impressive junior season and performance on the adidas 3SSB circuit showcased his scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility. Ohio State men's basketball coach Jake Diebler has hailed Thompson as a significant recruiting coup, with Thompson seen as a versatile shooter and defender who fits well on both ends of the floor and has ambitions to develop for an eventual NBA career. Thompson joins other Ohio prospects in the Buckeyes' 2026 class, highlighting Ohio State's renewed recruiting momentum. This commitment represents a key step for Ohio State basketball as it secures a top talent to bolster its future competitiveness.