Ohio State is adding a familiar face to Jake Diebler’s staff, and it’s a big one.
Jared Sullinger, one of the program’s most decorated players, has been hired as director of player development, the school announced Thursday. The former Buckeyes star is a two-time consensus first-team All-American and now becomes the latest ex-Ohio State player to join Diebler’s staff this offseason.
That trend has been a clear theme for Diebler. Earlier this offseason, Ohio State brought in William Buford as program assistant, continuing the push to surround the staff with people who know the Buckeyes’ culture from the inside.
Diebler pointed to both Sullinger’s background and his feel for the game in praising the hire.
"Jared's love for Ohio State and his passion for helping young players grow make him a tremendous addition to our program," said Diebler. "Combine that with his basketball IQ and experience playing at the highest levels, I believe he's going to elevate our development to even greater heights."
Sullinger’s Ohio State résumé speaks for itself. As a freshman in 2010-11, he put up 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game while helping the Buckeyes win a Big Ten regular-season championship, a Big Ten Tournament title and earn the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament.
He followed that with another huge season, averaging 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds as Ohio State reached the Final Four.
From there, Sullinger moved on to the NBA after being selected No. 21 overall by the Boston Celtics. He later played for the Toronto Raptors.
Now, he’s back where his rise began, taking the next step in his professional career at Ohio State.
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