Ohio State Recruit Quiet in McDonald's All-American Game

Anthony Thompson, the Buckeyes' highest-rated signee since 2010, had a muted performance in the annual showcase.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:07am

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Anthony Thompson, a five-star forward and Ohio State's highest-rated recruit since 2010, had a quiet game in the 2026 McDonald's All-American Game. Playing for the East team, Thompson came off the bench and finished with 5 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block, and 2 turnovers in 15 minutes of action as the East lost 102-86. Despite flashing his defensive potential, Thompson struggled to make an impact on the offensive end.

Why it matters

The McDonald's All-American Game is one of the premier high school basketball showcases, featuring the top prep talent in the country. Thompson's performance, or lack thereof, in this game raises questions about his readiness to contribute immediately at the college level for Ohio State.

The details

Thompson, a 6-foot-9 forward from Hudson (Ohio) Western Reserve Academy, was the first Ohio State men's basketball signee to play in the McDonald's All-American Game in over a decade. He came off the bench for the East team and had a relatively muted performance, struggling to make an impact on the offensive end despite flashing his defensive potential with a block and some altered shots.

  • Thompson subbed into the game with 4:55 left in the first half.
  • He started the second half for the East team.

The players

Anthony Thompson

A five-star forward and Ohio State's highest-rated recruit since Jared Sullinger in 2010, according to 247Sports.com rankings.

Caleb Holt

An Arizona signee who was named co-MVP of the game.

Jason Crowe Jr.

A Missouri signee who was named co-MVP of the game.

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What they’re saying

“He can flame it up from the outside.”

— Paul Biancardi, ESPN Analyst

The takeaway

Thompson's quiet performance in the McDonald's All-American Game raises questions about his readiness to contribute immediately at the college level for Ohio State. However, his defensive potential and high-profile recruitment suggest he still has significant upside that the Buckeyes will look to unlock in the coming years.