BREAKING: Versatile European Wing Mathieu Grujicic Commits to Ohio State Basketball
COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a significant addition to its 2025 recruiting class, Ohio State basketball has landed a commitment from rising European prospect Mathieu Grujicic, a versatile wing known for his skill, athleticism, and high basketball IQ. The 6-foot-8 Serbian native announced his decision Wednesday morning, giving new head coach Jake Diebler one of his most intriguing pieces yet.
Grujicic, who has been turning heads across international competitions and European club play, chose Ohio State over interest from several top programs in Europe and the United States. His commitment signals a growing trend of elite European talent opting to develop in the NCAA rather than staying in the professional systems overseas.
“I believe Ohio State is the best place for me to grow as a player and a person,” Grujicic said in a statement. “Coach Diebler and his staff showed real belief in my game and a clear plan for my development. I’m excited to be a Buckeye and help build something special in Columbus.”
Grujicic’s game is built around a combination of fluidity, length, and intelligence. At 6-8 with a strong frame and excellent lateral mobility, he can guard multiple positions and stretch the floor offensively. Scouts have praised his smooth shooting stroke, court vision, and ability to create mismatches on both ends of the floor. He’s equally comfortable handling the ball in transition or cutting off-ball within a structured offense.
Diebler, who took over the Buckeyes program earlier this year, has emphasized recruiting players who fit a modern, positionless brand of basketball. Grujicic appears to be a perfect fit for that vision, capable of playing either forward spot or sliding into a guard role depending on the lineup.
“Mathieu is a game-changer for us,” Diebler said in a release. “He brings a level of maturity, versatility, and competitiveness that will raise the bar in our program. He’s been tested against strong competition overseas, and we believe he’s just scratching the surface of what he can become.”
Grujicic has been a standout in the Adidas Next Generation Tournament and has trained with Mega Basket, a Serbian club renowned for developing NBA talent. His experience playing in Europe’s high-level youth circuits means he arrives in Columbus with a level of readiness that should allow him to contribute immediately.
His commitment gives Ohio State a much-needed boost on the recruiting trail and adds to the excitement surrounding Diebler’s first full cycle at the helm. With a roster already loaded with promising young pieces and returning veterans, the addition of Grujicic adds a dynamic dimension that could help the Buckeyes return to national prominence.
As the college basketball world continues to globalize, securing a commitment like Mathieu Grujicic shows Ohio State is ready to compete not only with traditional powerhouses but also on the international stage.
