Ohio State basketball is making a power move. Head coach Jake Diebler has officially added longtime NBA assistant Mike Wells to his coaching staff, filling the void left by Joel Justuce, who recently departed for an assistant role at Vanderbilt.

Wells brings a wealth of experience to Columbus—and a homecoming story that’s hard to beat. A Mount Vernon, Ohio native, Wells played at Mount Vernon Nazarene from 1991 to 1993 before launching his coaching career there the following season. From there, it was a steady climb through the NBA ranks: assistant video coordinator for the Houston Rockets (1994–96), video coordinator (1996–99), and then a decade-plus as an assistant with the Rockets, Lakers, Spurs, and Wizards.

After a brief college stint at George Mason (2011–13) and South Florida (2013–14), Wells returned to the pros with the Utah Jazz (2014–22) and Charlotte Hornets (2023–24). Most recently, he took his talents Down Under, serving as an assistant for the Adelaide 36ers and leading them to the 2026 NBL Championship Series before stepping down to come back to the States.

"I'm incredibly proud of what we've built in Adelaide over the past two seasons," Wells said in a statement. "The players, staff, and fans have made my family and me welcome. Adelaide is a special place, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the 36ers. But having spent some time back home in Utah with my sons, seeing my dad who is getting older, realizing I have been away from family for much of the past three decades, I know the decision to step down to be with my family is right."

Wells is expected to slot in as Diebler’s top assistant, nearly completing the Buckeyes’ coaching staff. He joins returning assistants Dave Dickerson, Jamall Walker, Luke Simons, and Brian Walsh. The only remaining vacancy is a new strength and conditioning coach, which Ohio State is actively looking to fill.

For a program looking to build momentum under Diebler, adding an NBA-tested veteran with deep Ohio roots is a major win. Buckeye fans should be excited about the experience and leadership Wells brings to the sideline.