Ohio State’s basketball program received a major boost this week as five-star combo guard L.J. Smith announced he will reclassify and join the Buckeyes for the 2026 season. The commitment comes after a standout high school career that highlighted his scoring ability and versatility on the court.
Ranked as the No. 5 combo guard and No. 25 overall in the 247Sports composite, Smith averaged nearly 17 points per game at Oak Hill Academy and set a single-season sophomore record in North Carolina with 960 points. His reputation as the top prospect from Virginia adds significant excitement to the recruiting class.
A Virginia Star Joins the Buckeyes
At Oak Hill Academy, Smith was identified as the No. 1 player in the state, and his scoring prowess was on full display during a season that saw him dominate the competition. The performance earned him a five-star rating and positioned him as a key target for elite programs nationwide.
Smith will be joined in the 2026 roster by fellow five-star recruit Anthony Thompson, as well as freshmen Alex Smith and Vuc Laxarevak. The class also features several experienced transfers: former California guard Justin Pippen, former Kentucky forward Andrija Jelavić, former Duquesne guard Jimmie Williams, and former Memphis guard Curtis Givens III.
Coach Jake Diebler, now in his third year at the helm, emphasized that the influx of talent is designed to build on last season’s NCAA Tournament appearance and to reinforce the team’s depth heading into conference play. The new additions are expected to elevate the Buckeyes’ competitiveness in the Big Ten.
Analysts predict that the blend of high‑profile freshmen and seasoned transfers could position Ohio State as a serious contender in the upcoming season. The signing underscores the program’s aggressive strategy to attract elite talent and to strengthen its brand presence in the national basketball landscape.