A Rare Talent Pair Returns to the Buckeyes
Ohio State announced on Tuesday that LJ Smith has officially signed with the program, marking a milestone for the basketball recruiting class.
Smith had pledged to the Buckeyes in November as part of the 2027 recruiting cycle, but he later reclassified, moving into the 2026 class and securing a spot alongside the already‑committed Anthony Thompson.
The duo represents the first time since 2008 that Ohio State has landed two five-star prospects in the same signing class, a rarity that underscores the program’s rising appeal on the national stage.
The last occurrence dates back to the 2008 class, when B.J. Mullens and William Buford both arrived in Columbus, setting a precedent that the current coaching staff hopes to replicate with the new arrivals.