Eric Boggs
Former Ohio State basketball guard Meechie Johnson has announced his return to Columbus, Ohio, following his recent entry into the transfer portal. The news came yesterday via X, marking a significant development for the Buckeyes’ roster.
Johnson, who has just concluded his most successful season in college, spent the last two years in the SEC under the coaching of Lamont Paris. During the past season, Johnson led the Gamecocks, averaging 14.1 points per game with a notable field goal percentage of 39.9%. These statistics represent career highs for the talented guard. Additionally, he contributed 4.1 rebounds per contest and 2.9 assists.
Hailing from Garfield Heights High School near Cleveland, Ohio, Johnson was a highly regarded four-star prospect when he committed to Ohio State as part of Chris Holtmann’s acclaimed 2020 recruiting class. His decision to return to the Buckeyes’ fold bolsters the team’s prospects for the upcoming season as Jake Diebler looks to build a winning roaster in his first full-season as head coach..
Johnson’s return comes at a crucial juncture for Ohio State, as they navigate roster changes precipitated by transfers. Freshmen Scotty Middleton and Bowen Hardman recently entered the transfer portal, opening up two coveted scholarships. Johnson has been swift to seize one of these opportunities, reaffirming his commitment to the Buckeyes.
However, Ohio State head coach, Diebler, has more than one option to consider in filling out the roster. Among the potential candidates are Matt Alloco from Princeton, Jalen Sullinger from Kent State, Tony Perkins from Iowa, Carey Booth from Notre Dame, Adou Thiero from Kentucky, and Bronnie James from USC.
The return of Meechie Johnson wasn’t the only good news Buckeye fans received on Tuesday. Star pointguard Bruce Thornton announced he was returning to the team for his junior season despite rumors that he was getting some lucrative NIL offers from other schools. Diebler’s backcourt next season could be one of the better one’s Ohio State has had in quite some time as Johnson joins Thornton and Roddy Gayle Jr.
