While the Ohio State women's basketball season has concluded, a new chapter begins for standout guard Chance Gray, who was selected by the Los Angeles Sparks with the 24th overall pick in the WNBA Draft. This marks the fourth consecutive year a Buckeye has heard her name called on draft night, continuing a remarkable pipeline of talent from Columbus to the professional ranks.

Gray's basketball journey is a homecoming story. A Cincinnati native, she began her collegiate career with the Oregon Ducks before transferring back to her home state to play for head coach Kevin McGuff at Ohio State. Her return proved pivotal, as she evolved into a key leader for the Buckeyes.

In her senior season, Gray's game reached new heights. Starting alongside fellow star Jaloni Cambridge, she embraced a larger role, averaging a career-best 14.7 points per game while shooting an impressive 45.3% from the field. Her three-point shooting was particularly lethal, hitting a personal best 40.5% from beyond the arc, showcasing the refined scoring touch that caught the Sparks' attention.

By joining the Sparks, Gray follows in the footsteps of Ohio State legend Jantel Lavender, becoming only the second Buckeye drafted by the Los Angeles franchise. She extends a historic run for the program, which has now seen a player drafted for four straight seasons—a new team record. Gray follows recent Ohio State draftees Taylor Thierry (2025), Jacy Sheldon and Celeste Taylor (2024), and Taylor Mikesell (2023), solidifying the Buckeyes' status as a WNBA talent factory.

The Sparks, looking to build on a 21-23 season, add a proven shooter and seasoned leader in Gray. Her ability to space the floor and knock down clutch shots will be a valuable asset as Los Angeles integrates new pieces like veteran Nneka Ogwumike and aims to climb the standings in a competitive Western Conference.