Aside from the influx of talent from the transfer portal, Jake Diebler and his staff have landed two of the most talented freshmen for Ohio State in more than a decade.

Anthony Thompson and LJ Smith add a dynamic layer to this roster that has been sorely missed. Diebler commented on the incoming class, saying, “I think it speaks more about what recruits and what people think about our program and where it’s headed, about our development. Because those guys wouldn’t be here if they didn’t believe at a high level in where we’re going as a team.” Whether there is a shift in program perception or not, welcoming such talent is an opportunity to do so.

Five-Star plus Small Forward, Anthony Thompson, has been committed to the Buckeyes since last November. Thompson was rated as the highest-rated recruit signed by Ohio State since Jared Sullinger in 2010. Although the sweet-stroking southpaw may remind you more of the previous most recent OSU five-star signee, D’Angelo Russell. The 6-foot-8 Lebanon, Ohio, native boasts a 7-foot-3 wingspan, showing remarkable athleticism for his size and length.

Anthony’s shooting prowess is also advanced for his age. In his final 3SSB (3Stripes Select Basketball) season, Thomson finished 53% shooting, 39% from three, and 88% from the line. His quick, high shot release point makes it difficult for any defender to contest his shot. If he wants to get his shot off, he will. Yet another advantage to his wingspan. With standout defensive potential, exceptional offensive ability, and an even-keeled demeanor, Thompson will make a large impact from game one.

Thanks to his decision to reclassify, standout combo guard LJ Smith joined alongside Thompson just a few weeks ago. The 6-foot-4 Oak Hill Academy product profiles to make a significant impact right away. His versatility and scoring ability give Diebler options in how he uses Smith.

LJ has also stood out as an exceptional rebounder at his size, and when asked what he brings to the team on day one, he simply said: “Buckets.” Because he was able to reclassify early enough to join the team in June, LJ and Anthony have begun to build their own chemistry as they grow together physically and mentally.

Coach Diebler has been complimentary of their work ethic and weekly growth since they’ve arrived. Physically, the main goal this summer is to “just get stronger,” as the 17-year-old Thompson stated that he is up to 219 pounds here in mid-July. Although he arrived later, LJ hit the weights as well and humorously stated, “I can definitely admit to being sore,” during the first couple of weeks after starting.

On the basketball side of things, Diebler wants both LJ and Anthony to become more comfortable in the paint. Playing in the Big Ten, building strength, and acclimating to physicality are obvious priorities.

There is glaring potential for both of these Freshmen to make it to the next level. Malaki Branham and Brice Sensabaugh most recently laid the one-and-done blueprint at OSU, getting selected in the first round in 2022 and 2023, respectively. However, on a roster that features more depth than years past, the pressure won’t be quite as focused on the young stars to explode onto the scene early. With some added size and more polished play at both ends, it will be intriguing to see where these two playmakers find themselves come March.