What Anthony Thompson’s Quiet McDonald’s All-American Game Means for Ohio State

The 2026 McDonald's All-American game took place on Tuesday night, and surprisingly, an Ohio State commitment was showcased.

While the Buckeyes are typically recognized for their elite recruits on the football field, this time they are set to bring in one of the top freshmen in basketball: forward Anthony Thompson.

How Anthony Thompson played in the McDonald's All-American game

Thompson represented the East in the game, and while there is a lot of hype around him, he did have a quiet outing. He recorded five points, three rebounds, one assist and one block in 15.26 minutes of play.

It's not a huge concern that Thompson didn't shine during the All-American game; after all, everyone on the court is just as skilled, if not more so, than he is.

Although Thompson may not have been one of the standout players in the game, he was excitedly anticipating the chance to showcase his skills on one of the grandest stages in basketball.

“You grow up watching this game every single year,” Thompson said Tuesday, via Adam Jardy from the Columbus Dispatch. “To be able to be here this year is a really big honor and blessing for all the hard work and people around me who have helped me get this far.”

Thompson should give Ohio State a huge boost

Thompson hails from Lebanon, Ohio, and played high school basketball at the Western Reserve Academy. He committed to the Buckeyes in November, and ESPN ranked him as the 11th-best player in the 2026 high school class.

The 6-foot-8 forward should be a starter from Day 1 next season, and he’s eager to bring his unique style to a Buckeyes team that could really use more talent.

“I think my ability to shoot the ball and my ability to score at the rim translates a lot,” Thompson said. “I’ve been working a lot on my athleticism and my strength these last couple of years, and I think it’s helped in these practices going against bigger, stronger guys. I think going to Ohio State, it’s going to improve even more.”

Ohio made it to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2022 this season. For the first time under head coach Jake Diebler, but unfortunately, the Buckeyes were unable to overcome TCU in the opening round.

It was great to see Ohio State back in the Big Dance, but the aim should definitely be to reach the second weekend. Thompson has the potential to help lead the Buckeyes back to playing meaningful basketball come late March.