A Big Decision for a Bright Future

Dorian Jones, a talented four-star basketball recruit and Ohio State signee, has decided to pump the brakes on heading to college this year. Instead of joining the Buckeyes for the 2025-26 season, the 6-foot-3 shooting guard from Cleveland’s Richmond Heights High School is taking a year at a prep school or junior college to sharpen his game and get ready for the big stage, according to reports from outlets like Eleven Warriors.

Sharing His Heartfelt Pla n

In a now-deleted Instagram post on May 30, 2025, Jones opened up about his choice, thanking Ohio State and head coach Jake Diebler for standing by him. “This next year is a chance for me to grow more before college,” he wrote, adding that he’s excited to keep his bond with the Buckeyes strong. A source close to the program told Eleven Warriors that Jones is still all-in with Ohio State for the future, just taking this extra time to prep.

A High School Star

Jones isn’t just any recruit. Ranked as the No. 18 shooting guard and No. 108 overall prospect in the 247Sports composite rankings, he’s been a standout at Richmond Heights. He led his team to three straight state championships and snagged first-team All-Ohio honors in Division IV as a junior, dropping about 14 points per game. The kid’s got serious game, and Buckeye fans are already dreaming of what he’ll bring to Columbus.

Why Prep School?

Word is, Jones was likely to be the fifth guard in Ohio State’s rotation this season, behind stars like Bruce Thornton and John Mobley Jr. Taking a year to build his skills—and possibly tackle some academic hurdles—makes sense for a young athlete who wants to hit the ground running when he finally arrives. It’s a mature move, showing he’s thinking long-term about his success.

What It Means for the Buckeyes

With Jones taking this detour, Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class, which also features four-star forward A’mare Bynum, will feel his absence next season. The team’s roster currently sits at 11 scholarship players, and Coach Diebler might look to add a couple more recruits to fill the gap. Still, the Buckeyes are keeping the door wide open for Jones when he’s ready.

A Year to Grow, A Future to Shine

Jones’ choice to spend a year at prep school shows he’s all about being his best self when he steps onto the Ohio State court. It’s not easy to delay a dream like playing Big Ten ball, but this move proves he’s got the patience and drive to make it big. Buckeye Nation will be cheering him on, counting down the days until he’s suiting up in scarlet and gray.