Top-30 Recruit Marcus Johnson Decommits from Ohio State Now

BREAKING: Top-30 recruit Marcus Johnson has officially decommitted from Ohio State, a significant shift announced just moments ago. Johnson’s decision marks a dramatic turn in the 2026 recruiting landscape, occurring over 18 months after he initially pledged to the Buckeyes in April 2024.

The 6-foot-2 guard from Garfield Heights High School was one of head coach Jake Diebler‘s first major recruits after his promotion from assistant coach. Diebler, who took over following the dismissal of Chris Holtmann, now faces a critical juncture as he seeks to maintain momentum in recruiting.

Johnson, currently ranked No. 28 in the SC Next 100, had a standout junior season, averaging an impressive 29.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. His performance on the Nike EYBL circuit with the Indy Heat further solidified his reputation, where he averaged 19.0 points and had three explosive games of 30 points last spring.

This announcement comes on the heels of Ohio State’s recent recruitment success, as they secured five-star prospect Anthony Thompson, ranked No. 13 nationally. Thompson, alongside four-star recruit Alex Smith, now forms a formidable core for the Buckeyes’ 2026 recruiting class, creating pressure for Johnson to reassess his options.

The emotional impact of Johnson’s decommitment resonates not just for fans but also for his family, as he follows in the footsteps of his father, Sonny Johnson, who was named Mr. Basketball in Ohio in 1998.

What happens next? As the recruiting season heats up, all eyes will be on Johnson’s next move and how it will affect Ohio State’s strategy moving forward. Expect updates as this story develops, as Johnson explores new opportunities in the ever-competitive realm of college basketball recruitment.