L.J. Smith Reclassifies to 2026 Class, Bolsters Ohio State’s Guard Play

Ohio State guard L.J. Smith has officially reclassified into the 2026 recruiting class and will be available to play for the Buckeyes this upcoming season. The five-star prospect, previously ranked as the No. 11 player in the 2027 class, will join fellow five-star recruit Anthony Thompson on campus next year.

Smith’s move gives the Buckeyes a major boost to their backcourt depth and talent. At 6-foot-5 and 200 pounds, Smith possesses elite size and versatility for a guard. He’s known for his explosive scoring ability and playmaking vision, drawing comparisons to high-end NBA prospects with his combination of perimeter shooting and ball-handling skills.

Ohio State is now projected to have one of the top-25 recruiting classes in the country for the 2026 season. With Smith and Thompson both expected to contribute early, the Buckeyes will have two of the highest-ranked recruits in the class on the same roster. Thompson, a 6-foot-5 guard ranked No. 15 nationally, brings a similar skill set with a focus on scoring efficiency and defensive intensity.

Smith’s reclassification is a significant development for college basketball. He was expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2027 class and is now expected to make an immediate impact in Columbus. His decision to move up a year could position him as a potential one-and-done prospect should he declare for the 2027 NBA Draft following his freshman season.

The Buckeyes’ coaching staff has consistently emphasized building a balanced roster with multiple scoring threats. Smith and Thompson could form a formidable guard duo for Ohio State, with both players capable of shouldering primary ball-handling duties and creating shots for themselves and teammates.

With Smith now eligible to play this season, the Buckeyes will enter the 2026-27 campaign with a stronger foundation at the guard position. The team is expected to open the season ranked in the Top 25, with a target of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Smith’s arrival adds another layer of excitement to a program already buzzing with talent and potential.