Ohio State is adding former Buckeye basketball star Jared Sullinger to its coaching staff for the 2026-27 season.
Head coach Jake Diebler is hiring Sullinger to be the director of player development.
“Jared’s love for Ohio State and his passion for helping young players grow make him a tremendous addition to our program,” Diebler said in a release. “Combine that with his basketball IQ and experience playing at the highest levels, I believe he’s going to elevate our development to even greater heights. Our players will benefit from his leadership and commitment to developing the next generation of Buckeyes.”
Sullinger played for Ohio State for two seasons from 2010-12 and was a two-time first-team All-American for the Buckeyes. He finished his college career averaging 17.3 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, helping lead the Buckeyes to a Sweet 16 as a freshman and a Final Four appearance in his sophomore year.
Sullinger decided to head to the NBA after his second year at Ohio State and was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the No. 21 overall pick. He spent four seasons there before playing with the Toronto Raptors for a season.
In the NBA, he averaged 10.8 points and 7.5 rebounds, but took his talents to the international game, playing in China, South Korea and Puerto Rico.
Sullinger officially retired from playing basketball on Sept. 3 and said in that post on Twitter that he would be heading back to Columbus.
“Columbus is home, and Ohio State holds a special place in my heart,” Sullinger said in the release. “The tradition here, the culture, and the support from Buckeye Nation shaped me into the player and person I am today. I’m grateful to Coach Diebler for the opportunity to come back and pour into these guys.”
