Deng Ngor has become the first commitment to Ohio State’s 2027 recruiting class, giving Jake Diebler and the Buckeyes a long, versatile wing with significant upside. The 6-foot-8, 200-pound Canadian prospect from Fort Erie International Academy emerged as one of the biggest stock risers of the summer, eventually climbing to # 55 overall nationally in the 247Sports rankings. Ngor chose Ohio State after narrowing his recruitment to the Buckeyes, Duke, Florida and Washington.

From a scouting standpoint, Ngor’s biggest value comes from his versatility. He has the length and athleticism to defend multiple positions, with evaluators describing him as a disruptive defender capable of guarding on the perimeter or sliding down the lineup. Offensively, he can attack closeouts, get downhill and finish above the rim while also providing spacing from the perimeter. His shooting is still developing, but he showed improvement during Canada’s run to the 2026 FIBA U18 AmeriCup gold medal, shooting 37.5% from three during the tournament while averaging 10.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.2 steals helping Canada defeat the United States in the championship game, scoring 15 points with three steals.

For Ohio State, Ngor gives the Buckeyes another versatile player who can impact the game without needing the offense built around him. His defensive activity, passing ability, transition play and willingness to facilitate others should fit well alongside higher-usage scorers. There is also considerable room for development as he gets stronger and becomes more consistent as a perimeter shooter and self-creator. His combination of size, athleticism and two-way potential makes him an intriguing long-term piece for Ohio State’s 2027 class. The Buckeyes will likely add at least one more piece to the class, likely at the guard position.

-Jason Harris