Ohio State Five-Star Signee Eager for McDonald's Game Showcase

Anthony Thompson, a projected 2027 NBA lottery pick, will represent the East team in the prestigious high school all-star event.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:04am

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Anthony Thompson, a five-star Ohio State signee and projected 2027 NBA lottery pick, is excited to play in the upcoming McDonald's All-American Game. The 6-foot-9, 205-pound forward is the highest-rated player to sign with Ohio State since Jared Sullinger in 2010 and the program's first prep signee to play in the McDonald's All-American Game since D'Angelo Russell in 2014.

Why it matters

The McDonald's All-American Game is one of the most prestigious high school basketball showcases, featuring the top talent in the country. Thompson's selection is a major accomplishment and a testament to his skills, potential, and the growing reputation of the Ohio State basketball program.

The details

Thompson, who is ranked the No. 7 overall player and No. 3 small forward in the 2027 class by 247Sports, will represent the East team in the game. He is excited for the opportunity to compete against the nation's best players and showcase his versatile skillset, including his shooting ability and athleticism. Thompson chose Ohio State in part due to his strong relationship with the coaching staff, and he is eager to team up with returning forward Amare Bynum to form a dynamic duo for the Buckeyes next season.

  • The McDonald's All-American Game will take place on March 31, 2026.
  • Thompson signed with Ohio State in November.

The players

Anthony Thompson

A five-star forward and Ohio State signee who is projected to be a lottery pick in the 2027 NBA Draft.

Amare Bynum

An Ohio State forward who announced he will return for his sophomore season, forming a formidable frontcourt duo with Thompson.

Jared Sullinger

A former Ohio State star who was the last highly-rated high school player to sign with the Buckeyes before Thompson.

D'Angelo Russell

The last Ohio State prep signee to play in the McDonald's All-American Game before Thompson.

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What they’re saying

“Hopefully, I can make a good career in the NBA and then people can look back on high school and say, 'Yeah, we kind of saw early on.'”

— Anthony Thompson, Ohio State Signee

“When it came down to it in my recruitment, I think the coaching staff was the biggest thing for me. My relationship with them, my relationship with coach Diebler and the entire staff, their efforts in me staying home, when it was time to commit, I was most comfortable with going to Ohio State.”

— Anthony Thompson, Ohio State Signee

“Amare, he's a monster. I'm really excited to play with him. I'm excited to use my versatility and his strength and his power for us to be a dynamic duo next year. I'm just really excited for that.”

— Anthony Thompson, Ohio State Signee

What’s next

Thompson will look to make the most of his opportunity in the McDonald's All-American Game on March 31, 2026, as he continues his journey towards the 2027 NBA Draft.

The takeaway

Anthony Thompson's selection to the prestigious McDonald's All-American Game is a major milestone in his basketball career and a testament to his immense talent. His commitment to Ohio State and the potential pairing with Amare Bynum next season has Buckeyes fans excited about the program's future.