Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler revealed that guard Justin Pippen will join the Buckeyes for the 2026‑27 campaign, adding a seasoned playmaker to a roster eager for a new spark.
A Legacy Reunited in Columbus
Pippen, the son of NBA Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, grew up watching the game’s greats and has now set his sights on continuing that lineage in the Big Ten. His recruitment was highlighted by a Top 75 ranking in the 2024 class from Sierra Canyon High School in California.
After two collegiate seasons split between Michigan and Cal, Pippen compiled a solid stat line that caught the attention of Ohio State’s staff. At Cal he averaged 14.2 points and 4.6 assists per game, while also pulling down 2.4 rebounds and recording 61 steals, the fourth‑most in school history for a single season.
His time at Michigan saw him contribute to a team that captured the Big Ten Tournament title and advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, providing a championship pedigree that aligns with Ohio State’s own aspirations.
Diebler praised the guard’s blend of scoring, playmaking and defensive intensity, noting that Pippen’s experience will be a valuable asset as the Buckeyes look to build on recent successes. "He brings a high‑level performance that fits perfectly with our vision," Diebler said in the announcement.
The addition of Pippen not only bolsters the roster’s depth but also adds a narrative storyline that connects the program to a basketball lineage rich in championship pedigree. Fans can expect to see a player eager to honor his family’s legacy while carving out his own chapter in Columbus.