Ohio State basketball fans are buzzing about their latest star freshman, John "Juni" Mobley Jr. The 6'1" guard from the class of 2024 has wasted no time making his mark, showcasing incredible shooting ability and poise beyond his years in his first two games. Through these performances, Mobley has demonstrated why many believe he’s the next great freshman for Ohio State basketball.
In Ohio State’s season second game against Youngstown State, Mobley was electric. Despite only playing 23 minutes, he made the most of his time on the court, putting up 16 points on an efficient 5-of-9 shooting. Even more impressive was his sharp shooting from beyond the arc, where he hit 3-of-4 attempts. He also added 3 assists, showing his ability to both score and create for others.
But what’s really turned heads is how well he’s shooting to start the season. Over two games, including a stellar showing against a ranked Texas team, Mobley has made 8-of-10 jump shots, proving that his range is not just impressive but consistent.
His smooth, quick release from deep is already drawing comparisons to some of the best shooters in the game. In fact, Mobley opened the season a perfect 7-for-7 from downtown, and even after missing his first three-pointer, his shooting touch remains one of the most reliable weapons in Ohio State’s arsenal.
When asked about Ohio State's confidence in Mobley, head coach Jake Diebler emphasized how important it is to let Mobley play with freedom. "Juni got it going," Diebler said. "And when he gets it going, I feel like he plays with a basket that's twice the size of what it actually is."
This level of trust from the coaching staff speaks volumes about Mobley’s impact as a freshman. With the green light to shoot from just about anywhere on the floor, Mobley has become an offensive spark for the Buckeyes.
One aspect of Mobley's game that stands out is his ability to move without the ball and create space for his shot. On even the most simple pindown plays, Mobley can use his quickness and basketball IQ to make defenders chase him, freeing himself up for open looks. This skill, combined with his deadly shooting, makes him an incredibly tough cover for opposing defenses. Whether he’s pulling up from 25 feet or even further, Mobley’s shot looks the same—smooth, confident, and almost automatic.
Some have already begun to wonder if Mobley might be the best three-point shooter in his freshman class, and the numbers certainly back that up. His shooting has completely changed the dynamic of Ohio State’s offense, allowing the team to spread the floor and create more opportunities for both perimeter shooting and drives to the basket.
His influence goes beyond just his scoring, though. In the Texas game, Mobley’s energy and pace were game-changers. During the season, he has achieved a +24 plus-minus rating, the fourth-highest on the team. Even as a freshman Mobley’s presence on the court has been undeniably positive for the Buckeyes.
The excitement around Mobley doesn’t stop with his shooting. His playstyle has already drawn comparisons to former Ohio State standout Duane Washington Jr. but with even more range. Washington was known for his offensive firepower, but Mobley’s ability to stretch defenses even further out makes him an even more dangerous weapon. The combination of range, quickness, and confidence at such an early stage of his college career has fans and analysts alike making bold claims about the team and Mobley.
Ohio State freshman John Mobley has scored 30 points in his first two games. 7-8 from three-point range during that span. Buckeyes look like they have the best backcourt in the Big Ten. 2-0.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) November 12, 2024
Through just two games, Juni Mobley has shown that he’s not just another freshman—he’s a special talent. His incredible shooting ability, his poise under pressure, and his knack for changing the game with his energy make him a rising star to watch.
If he continues on this trajectory, it won’t be long before Mobley is a household name in college basketball, and Ohio State will have found its next great true freshman.