Ohio State Lands Experienced Transfer Guard Jimmie Williams

Buckeyes add All-Atlantic 10 scorer from Duquesne to bolster backcourt.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 5:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a college basketball player in motion, with sharp planes of scarlet and gray colors representing Ohio State's team colors.Ohio State's latest transfer portal addition brings a veteran scoring presence to the Buckeyes' backcourt.Solon Today

Ohio State basketball has landed a commitment from Duquesne guard Jimmie Williams, a 6-foot-5 veteran scorer who will transfer to Columbus and provide an experienced option in the Buckeyes' backcourt next season.

Why it matters

The Buckeyes have significant roster turnover to address after an early NCAA Tournament exit, and Williams' all-around game and proven scoring ability will help fill a clear need for Ohio State as they look to contend in the top tier of the Big Ten.

The details

Williams averaged 15.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game for Duquesne last season, earning third-team All-Atlantic 10 honors. The native of Solon, Ohio, has played at multiple levels of college basketball, including stints at South Florida and junior college power Wallace State.

  • Williams announced his commitment to Ohio State on April 19, 2026.

The players

Jimmie Williams

A 6-foot-5 guard who was a third-team All-Atlantic 10 selection last season at Duquesne, where he averaged 15.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game.

Jake Diebler

The head coach of the Ohio State men's basketball team, who has been actively rebuilding the Buckeyes' roster through the transfer portal this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Williams' background and ability will give Jake Diebler a key piece in navigating one of the most important portal periods of the modern era.”

— Sunny Verma, Author

The takeaway

Ohio State continues to aggressively address its roster needs through the transfer portal, adding a proven scorer and experienced guard in Jimmie Williams to help the Buckeyes contend in the Big Ten next season.