In what’s shaping up to be one of the most talked-about recruiting showdowns of the offseason, Ohio State’s new head coach Jake Diebler and former Buckeye boss Chris Holtmann are now locked in a high-stakes battle for the services of a highly-coveted transfer guard. With both coaches looking to reshape their respective programs, this pursuit could mark a pivotal moment in their early tenures.
The transfer guard in question has yet to publicly reveal his destination, but he’s already become one of the most sought-after names in the portal. A proven scorer with elite court vision and defensive tenacity, his arrival could instantly shift the trajectory of any program lucky enough to land him. Multiple Power 5 schools have expressed interest, but insiders say the competition has narrowed down to two familiar faces—Diebler at Ohio State and Holtmann, now leading DePaul.
Jake Diebler, who took over the reins in Columbus after Holtmann’s departure earlier this year, is eager to solidify his vision for the Buckeyes. With Ohio State fans hungry for a return to national relevance, landing a marquee player like this would send a clear message: the Buckeyes aren’t just rebuilding—they’re reloading.
But Holtmann isn’t backing down. After being let go from Ohio State following an underwhelming stretch, he’s now looking to make a splash in Chicago. DePaul has struggled for years to find consistent footing in the Big East, and Holtmann is betting that this transfer guard could be the first domino in a broader turnaround. Sources close to the situation indicate that Holtmann is pitching immediate playing time, offensive freedom, and the chance to be the centerpiece of a major resurgence.
Meanwhile, Diebler is leaning heavily on familiarity, Ohio State’s facilities, and the Big Ten spotlight as key selling points. He’s also banking on the trust he built with players and recruits during his time as an assistant. His message: stick with the Buckeyes, and become part of something special.
For the player at the center of this recruiting tug-of-war, the decision won’t be easy. On one hand, he could remain in the national spotlight at a program with deep tournament aspirations. On the other, he could blaze a new trail under a familiar coach determined to prove his doubters wrong.
One thing’s for sure: the outcome of this battle won’t just define a roster. It could set the tone for the next chapter in both coaches’ careers.
