
Ohio State Eyes Breakout Season with Elite Freshmen Anthony Thompson and LJ Smith
The arrival of two five-star freshmen and key transfers has Ohio State basketball buzzing, with high expectations for talent, depth, and on‑court chemistry.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Greg Oden across Basketball.

The arrival of two five-star freshmen and key transfers has Ohio State basketball buzzing, with high expectations for talent, depth, and on‑court chemistry.
A look at the milestones, players and cultural touchstones that have made Indiana high school basketball a national benchmark.

Former Ohio State players including Jared Sullinger, Greg Oden, E.J. Liddell and coach Thad Matta returned for drills, lauding the current roster’s potential ahead of the November 2 opener versus BYU.

Former Ohio State players and a coach took part in drills with the current team, noting increased length, size and skill, and the program invites fans to watch a video preview before the season begins.

A Tuesday workout at the Schottenstein Center brought together former Ohio State basketball standouts and the current team, setting the stage for a Thursday scrimmage that blends nostalgia with preparation.

Ohio State’s men’s basketball program brings back alumni such as Jake Diebler, Thad Matta and Greg Oden for a week‑long mentorship event that blends tradition with the future of the Buckeye program.

A revamped Ohio State squad, bolstered by increased NIL funding and key returning players, aims to compete at the top of the Big Ten this season.

Since 1947, the NBA Draft has produced a parade of No. 1 overall selections, many of whom honed their games at top collegiate programs. This article traces the schools and high schools that have supplied the league’s most coveted first‑overall talents, spotlighting Duke’s six picks, the Cavaliers’ record six selections, and the rise of phenoms like Cooper Flagg.

LJ Smith, a five‑star guard who reclassified to the 2026‑27 freshman class, pledged to Ohio State, bringing elite talent and a historic recruiting achievement to the program.

After a career plagued by injuries, Greg Oden found a second chance with the Miami Heat in 2013, where he forged a close friendship with Michael Beasley and embraced a low‑key routine of drinking Hennessy to stay out of trouble. Their story unfolds against the backdrop of the Heat's 2014 NBA Finals loss to the Spurs.

Veteran NBA coach Mike Wells, longtime strength specialist Dave Richardson and program legend William Buford join head coach Jake Diebler, while Jamall Walker ascends to associate head coach.

Luke Ertel and Gracyn Gilliard, the latest Mr. Basketball and Miss Basketball, lead a historic Indiana All‑Star series against Kentucky, showcasing a rare blend of state titles and championship pedigree.

The Bruins have announced the signing of four graduate‑transfer athletes, each bringing distinct skill sets and eligibility remaining, as they look to bolster the roster for the upcoming campaign.

UCLA announced the signing of four transfer student‑athletes, each bringing distinct skills and collegiate experience, as the program looks to strengthen its roster for the upcoming season.

At 38, former Ohio State star Mike Conley is weighing his next move, balancing a desire for a title with the possibility of staying with the Timberwolves.