Ohio State's future just got a whole lot brighter. Before he even steps foot on campus, five-star recruit Anthony Thompson is set to represent the United States on the international stage.

The 6-foot-8, 205-pound forward, who will join the Buckeyes as a freshman in the 2026-27 season, has been selected to attend the 2026 USA Basketball Men's U18 National Team training camp. The camp kicks off May 21 at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado—a prestigious setting that has launched countless basketball careers.

Thompson is among 35 elite players invited to the camp, but he stands out as one of only 18 from the 2026 graduating class. The competition will be fierce, with the final 12-man roster also drawing from the 2027 and 2028 classes. Those who make the cut will represent the Americans at the 2026 FIBA U18 Men's AmeriCup, held June 1-7 in Leon, Mexico.

This isn't Thompson's first rodeo with Team USA. The Ohio native previously attended two junior national team minicamps in 2025, one in April and another in October, showing his dedication to developing his game at the highest level.

Thompson's arrival at Ohio State will mark a historic moment for the program. He's the Buckeyes' highest-rated recruit since Jared Sullinger in 2010 and the first five-star player since D'Angelo Russell in 2014. According to 247Sports.com, Thompson is ranked as the No. 7 prospect in his class—a testament to his explosive athleticism and versatile skill set.

Adding to the excitement, Thompson is also the first McDonald's All-American to sign with Ohio State out of high school since Russell. A native of Lebanon, Ohio, he spent his final two prep seasons at Hudson (Ohio) Western Reserve Academy, where he honed the talents that have college basketball fans buzzing.

For Buckeyes fans, this is more than just a recruiting win—it's a glimpse of a bright future. As Thompson prepares to don the red, white, and blue this summer, the countdown to his arrival in Columbus has officially begun.