The Ohio State basketball program hasn't had as many players head to the NBA as they would have liked in the last few years. Of the Chris Holtmann era players, not a lot of them have actually been drafted or been able to contribute to the NBA in a meaningful way.
Players like Keita Bates-Diop and Jamison Battle have been able to carve out rotational roles, but the Buckeyes haven't been able to produce a ton of great players at the next level in recent years. Thad Matta did a lot better producing NBA-level players, and one of his players is still producing at an advanced age.
Mike Conley was the fourth overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. He has been one of the most productive players in the NBA in his stellar career, and still starts. He is currently starting for the Minnesota Timberwolves and was a key player in the first game of their playoff series against the Lakers.
Former Ohio State basketball player Mike Conley has a solid game against the Lakers in Game 1
Conley isn't one of the best players on the Timberwolves at this point in his career, but he is still one of the most important. He had a really good game in a win over the Lakers. He finished the game with nine points, three rebounds, three assists, and a team-leading three steals.
The Timberwolves won Game 1 on the road 117-95, thanks in part to what Conley was able to do on defense. His steals certainly helped Minnesota win this first critical game and take over home-court advantage. He is still a really good player, even at the age of 37.
Conley is the gold standard for Ohio State basketball players. He is still someone who can make some solid plays, even as one of the older players in the league. Jake Diebler would be smart to use him in future recruiting situations.