Justin Pippen Joins Ohio State, Continuing Family's Basketball Legacy

Son of NBA great Scottie Pippen looks to make his own mark with the Buckeyes

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:21pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of scarlet, gray, and black, capturing the dynamic energy and movement of the sport.The Pippen family's basketball legacy continues as Justin Pippen joins Ohio State, bringing his dynamic playmaking and defensive skills to the Buckeyes' backcourt.Columbus Today

Justin Pippen, the son of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, has committed to play basketball at Ohio State University. Pippen, a talented guard who had a breakout sophomore season at the University of California, is looking to carve out his own legacy and help the Buckeyes return to national prominence.

Why it matters

Pippen's arrival at Ohio State is significant not just because of his famous last name, but because he has the potential to be a game-changing player for the Buckeyes. With his ability to score, distribute, and play lockdown defense, Pippen could be the missing piece that takes Ohio State's program to new heights.

The details

After an underwhelming freshman year at the University of Michigan, Pippen transferred to Cal, where he averaged 14.2 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game as a sophomore. His passing skills and defensive intensity stand out, and Ohio State is hoping he can be the floor general to elevate their backcourt.

  • Pippen committed to Ohio State in April 2026.
  • He will join the Buckeyes for the 2026-27 season.

The players

Justin Pippen

A 6-foot-3 guard and son of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, Pippen is looking to make a name for himself at Ohio State after a breakout sophomore season at the University of California.

Scottie Pippen

A Hall of Fame NBA player and six-time champion with the Chicago Bulls, Scottie Pippen is the father of Justin Pippen and one of the most accomplished players in basketball history.

Bruce Thornton

The starting point guard for Ohio State, Thornton is graduating, leaving a void in the Buckeyes' backcourt that Justin Pippen is expected to fill.

Gabe Cupps

A guard who played for Ohio State, Cupps has entered the transfer portal, further opening up an opportunity for Pippen to step in and make an immediate impact.

Taison Chatman

Another Ohio State guard who has entered the transfer portal, creating more playing time and a chance for Pippen to establish himself as the team's primary ball-handler.

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What they’re saying

“Justin Pippen is more than just a name - he's a talented player who can really impact the game on both ends of the floor. Ohio State is getting a great two-way guard who can elevate their entire program.”

— Jonah Leffler, Sports Writer

What’s next

As Ohio State continues to rebuild its roster, the focus will be on how quickly Pippen can integrate with his new teammates and establish himself as the team's leader. The Buckeyes still have some holes to fill, particularly at center, but Pippen's arrival is a significant step in the right direction.

The takeaway

Justin Pippen's decision to join Ohio State represents a new chapter in the Pippen family's basketball legacy. While he'll undoubtedly face high expectations, Pippen has the talent and potential to carve out his own path and help the Buckeyes return to national prominence in the process.