The offseason transformation of the Ohio State basketball program continues as the Buckeyes have secured the transfer of Gabe Cupps, a 6’2″ guard from Centerville, Ohio, who comes to Columbus after spending his freshman year at Indiana. Cupps, a standout prep player at Centerville High School, has an impressive resume and is expected to play a significant role in Coach Jake Diebler’s revamped lineup.

Cupps had an illustrious high school career, culminating in a state championship with Centerville in 2021, where he played for his father. The following year, Cupps was named Mr. Basketball for the state of Ohio in 2022 and finished third in the 2023 race, which was won by current Buckeye Devin Royal. His high school success made him one of the top recruits in the state, and he chose Indiana to continue his basketball journey.

As a freshman for the Hoosiers, Cupps appeared in 33 games, making 22 starts. He averaged 2.6 points, 1.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 0.7 steals in 22 minutes per game. While his offensive production was modest, Cupps showed promise, shooting 36.4% from the floor and 36% from three-point range. However, the 2023 season was derailed by an early injury, and Cupps took a medical redshirt, leaving him with three years of eligibility to play for Ohio State.

Known for his defensive prowess, Cupps is an elite on-ball defender who will add a much-needed spark to the Buckeyes’ backcourt. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses, combined with his solid three-point shooting, makes him an ideal fit for a team looking to improve its defensive identity and pace of play. With a high basketball IQ and a natural feel for the game, Cupps is expected to provide valuable depth to Ohio State’s guard rotation, primarily as a backup at both the 1 and 2 positions.

Coach Diebler has indicated that one of the focal points for the upcoming season is to establish a more up-tempo style of play, something that was difficult to maintain last season due to a lack of depth and injuries, particularly the loss of Meechie Johnson. Cupps’ defensive ability and potential as a reliable outside shooter will be crucial in providing the Buckeyes with more versatility and depth as they aim to play faster and with more defensive intensity.

With the addition of Gabe Cupps, Ohio State is beginning to look like a much deeper and more dynamic team, with a clear focus on improving both ends of the floor. His defensive mindset and capability as a sharpshooter will be assets as the Buckeyes look to make a return to NCAA Tournament contention in the upcoming season.

-Jason Harris