Ohio State Basketball Faces Roster Shakeup as Key Players Enter Transfer Portal

Buckeyes look to rebuild after losing several starters, including Devin Royal, Taison Chatman, and Gabe Cupps

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:36am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric representation of a college basketball game or competition, using shades of scarlet, gray, and navy blue to symbolize Ohio State University's program.Ohio State's roster overhaul exposes the volatility of the transfer portal, forcing the Buckeyes to rebuild their team amidst regional rivalries.Columbus Today

The Ohio State men's basketball team is facing a significant roster overhaul as several key players have entered the transfer portal, including small forward Devin Royal, guards Taison Chatman and Gabe Cupps, and forward Colin White. The departures come as the Buckeyes' Big Ten rivals, Michigan and Illinois, have found success in the NCAA tournament, adding pressure for Ohio State to rebuild its roster and remain competitive in the conference.

Why it matters

Ohio State's transfer portal activity highlights the fluid nature of college basketball rosters and the challenges coaches face in maintaining program stability. The Buckeyes must now address gaps at several positions, including starting guard and center, while also competing with the success of their regional rivals in the Big Ten.

The details

Royal, a two-year starter and consistent contributor, is leaving Ohio State for his final year of eligibility, likely seeking more playing time. Chatman and Cupps, both guards, are also looking for new opportunities after three seasons with the Buckeyes. The departures come as Ohio State prepares to welcome five-star prospect Anthony Thompson, who could help fill the void at small forward.

  • In the 2025-26 season, Ohio State lost several key players to the transfer portal.

The players

Devin Royal

A small forward who started for two seasons at Ohio State and was a consistent scorer and rebounder for the Buckeyes.

Taison Chatman

A guard who was Ohio State's third-leading scorer last season and is seeking a fresh start with a new program.

Gabe Cupps

A guard who is embarking on his third college destination, having previously played for Indiana before joining Ohio State.

Colin White

A forward who is also leaving Ohio State after playing for the Buckeyes.

Anthony Thompson

A five-star prospect who is set to join Ohio State and could help fill the void left by Devin Royal's departure.

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What’s next

Ohio State will need to aggressively recruit in the transfer portal and through high school recruiting to rebuild its roster and remain competitive in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes' ability to navigate this transition will be a true test of head coach Jake Diebler's leadership and recruiting prowess.

The takeaway

Ohio State's transfer portal exodus highlights the challenges facing college basketball programs in maintaining roster stability and competing with the success of their regional rivals. The Buckeyes must now focus on rebuilding their team through strategic recruiting to remain a contender in the Big Ten.