LeBron James gives Ohio State basketball program massive recruiting tool

The Ohio State basketball program has benefited greatly from LeBron James over the years. James never played college basketball. He was born and raised in Akron, OH, and grew up an Ohio State fan. James has said multiple times over the years that had he gone to college, he would have played for the Buckeyes.

James has gifted the Ohio State Buckeyes multiple times over the years to both the football and the basketball programs. He has given the football program some custom LBJ cleats. The basketball program has also gotten some shoes, as well.

As one of the most famous Ohio State fans in the world, James has given the Buckeyes plenty of opportunities for recruiting tools and marketing opportunities. He did the same thing on Thursday night in a game against the Mavericks with the shoes he was wearing.

LeBron James seen wearing Ohio State basketball shoes vs. Mavericks

In a game against Dallas, James was wearing some custom Ohio State basketball shoes. Take a look at the cool shoes he had on.

It was the final game before the All-Star break for the Lakers, so it was cool for James to break these out against the Mavericks. He will continue to be a fan of Ohio State for his entire life. When he is finished playing, perhaps the university can find a way to get him to donate some NIL funds.

Jake Diebler should find a way to figure out how to turn this into a recruiting tool. Having one of the best basketball players of all time supporting the program should be at the top of his list in terms of helping this program be more competitive. High school kids love James.

James was named as an All-Star yet again and is trying to find a way to will the Lakers to a title. Meanwhile, the Ohio State Buckeyes are battling just to make the NCAA Tournament. Diebler has a lot of work to do to put his team in a position to fight for an at-large bid.