The Ohio State basketball team had its season end in disappointing fashion. They lost in the first round of the NCAA Tournament after TCU hit a game-winning shot with around four seconds left. It was the first time the Buckeyes had made the NCAA Tournament in four years, and it was over very quickly.
Just a couple of weeks after that defeat, Devin Royal decided to declare for the Transfer Portal. He was supposed to be one of the senior leaders heading into next season. Without him, there is a leadership void on the roster now that Bruce Thornton is out of eligibility.
John Mobley Jr. is poised to step into that role, even though he will be a junior next season. He will likely turn into the top offensive option if he returns. That is now up in the air, as Mobley has decided to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft while retaining his collegiate eligibility.
The Ohio State basketball team could lose Juni Mobley to the NBA Draft
Mobley released a statement on social media, declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Statement from John Mobley Jr 🌰 pic.twitter.com/laY0JNvtPa
— Ohio State Hoops (@OhioStateHoops) March 31, 2026
In his statement, Mobley did make it clear that he will not be entering the Transfer Portal. If he does not get drafted, he will be returning to the Buckeyes next season. This is certainly an interesting choice for him, as this is supposed to be a loaded drafted, especially at guard.
It's highly unlikely that Mobley will be taken in the Draft. He likely needs to return next year and show that he can handle more of the ball-handling duties and be more of a point guard than just a shooting guard. Increasing his play-making is the key to getting on the radar of NBA teams.
There's always a shot he tries to sign a deal as an undrafted free agent. If that happens, the Ohio State Buckeyes will have to replace another veteran starter. That would be a crushing blow to Jake Diebler as he continues this Buckeye rebuild.