For the first time in recent memory, no Ohio State basketball players are projected to be selected in the 2025 NBA Draft. This development marks a significant departure from the program’s tradition of producing NBA-caliber talent, raising questions about the current state of the Buckeyes’ basketball pipeline and overall competitiveness in the Big Ten and nationally.
Historically, Ohio State has been a reliable source of NBA talent, with alumni like D’Angelo Russell, Mike Conley Jr., and Evan Turner all making names for themselves at the professional level. However, this year’s draft class lacks a clear-cut prospect from the Buckeyes’ roster. While a few players showed flashes of potential during the season, none made a strong enough case to earn a spot in the two-round draft, according to analysts and mock draft projections.
This absence may reflect broader challenges within the program. Ohio State has struggled with consistency and player development over the past few seasons, and the lack of a standout NBA prospect could be both a symptom and a cause of those difficulties. Head coach Jake Diebler, now fully at the helm, faces mounting pressure to not only return the team to March Madness contention but also to reignite the program’s reputation as a breeding ground for professional talent.
Despite the setback, going undrafted doesn’t close the door on pro opportunities. Players like Justice Sueing or Bruce Thornton, if they choose to pursue the professional route, could still earn Summer League invites or contracts overseas. Still, the fact remains—Ohio State will not have a representative in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Moving forward, the focus will likely shift to recruitment and development, as the Buckeyes look to rebuild and once again become a force in college basketball and a source of talent for t
he NBA.
