Eric Boggs
Ohio State basketball’s 2025 class will have to wait a bit longer to welcome one of its promising talents. Four-star shooting guard Dorian Jones, one of two players currently committed to the Buckeyes for the 2025 cycle, has decided to delay his enrollment.
Jones shared the news in a since-deleted Instagram post on Friday, stating his intention to take an additional year to continue developing both on and off the court. According to sources close to the program, Jones will be spending the 2025-26 season at a prep school or junior college before joining Ohio State.
In his statement, Jones expressed appreciation for the program and his ongoing commitment to the Buckeyes, noting, “As I reflect on my development, this next year is an opportunity for me to grow more prior to college. I won’t be enrolling at Ohio State this year but I look forward to continuing our relationship.”
Further reporting from 247Sports indicated that academic eligibility concerns may have contributed to the decision. Jones is currently ranked No. 114 nationally and No. 19 among shooting guards in the 247Sports composite rankings for the 2025 class.
While his absence will impact the projected guard depth for the upcoming season, Jones’ commitment to Ohio State remains firm. The Buckeyes’ backcourt this year will still feature senior Bruce Thornton, sophomore standout John Mobley Jr., Indiana transfer Gabe Cupps, and redshirt sophomore Taison Chatman—making it a competitive group.
Ohio State has 15 roster spots to manage, with 13 scholarship slots available. With Jones stepping back temporarily, 11 scholarship players are now confirmed for the 2025-26 roster. More updates to the roster are expected in the coming months as the staff looks to fill out the remaining positions.
Jones’ decision may delay his arrival, but Buckeye Nation can look forward to seeing his talents in Columbus in the near future.
