Anthony Thompson Named McDonald’s All-American, Signaling a Turning Point for Ohio State Basketball
For a program with as rich a basketball history as Ohio State, the last several years have felt like a long walk in the wilderness. Since the departure of Thad Matta - the coach who once made Columbus a regular stop for elite high school talent - the Buckeyes have struggled to land the kind of game-changing recruits that can elevate a team from good to great. But with the commitment of Anthony Thompson, there’s real reason to believe the tide may finally be turning.
Thompson, a 6'8" forward out of Hudson, Ohio, just became the first Buckeye since D’Angelo Russell to earn McDonald’s All-American honors - a prestigious nod that places him among the top high school players in the country. For Ohio State, it’s more than just a recruiting win. It’s a statement.
A Much-Needed Boost for the Buckeyes
Let’s be clear: this is a huge get for Ohio State and for head coach Jake Diebler, who has been working to reestablish the Buckeyes as a major player on the national recruiting scene. Thompson isn’t just a five-star talent - he’s the kind of player who can change the trajectory of a program.
At 6'8", Thompson brings versatility to both ends of the floor. He’s comfortable scoring inside, can stretch the defense with his shooting, and holds his own on the perimeter defensively. That kind of two-way ability is rare at the high school level, and it’s exactly what Ohio State has been missing in recent years.
With Bruce Thornton set to wrap up his college career this season, Thompson is walking into a situation where he’ll be asked to contribute - and likely lead - from day one. That’s a big ask for any freshman, but Thompson has the tools and the mentality to handle it.
The Pressure - and the Opportunity - Ahead
There’s no sugarcoating it: the Buckeyes are in a critical stretch. If they miss the NCAA Tournament again this year, it’ll mark four straight seasons without a March Madness appearance - a drought that’s hard to swallow for a program with Ohio State’s pedigree. Diebler’s future with the program may hinge on how things unfold this season, but landing a talent like Thompson certainly helps his case.
More importantly, Thompson represents hope for the future. Not just because of what he can do on the court, but because his commitment could open the door for other top-tier recruits to follow.
Programs build momentum in recruiting the same way they do on the court - one big win at a time. Thompson is that kind of win.
Circle the Date
Fans eager to get a first look at Thompson’s game won’t have to wait long. He’ll suit up in the McDonald’s All-American Game on March 31st, airing at 9 p.m.
ET on ESPN. It’s a showcase for the best of the best, and Thompson absolutely belongs in that conversation.
For Ohio State, this isn’t just about one player. It’s about signaling to the college basketball world that the Buckeyes are ready to compete at the highest level again. And with Anthony Thompson leading the charge, the future in Columbus just got a whole lot brighter.