As the dust settles on a chaotic transfer portal window, Ohio State basketball fans are looking beyond the roster churn to the future. While the Buckeyes work to fill out their squad, two names offer a glimpse of what's to come: incoming freshmen Anthony Thompson and Alex Smith. These two recruits form the core of the 2026 class and will be crucial pieces as the program rebuilds its identity.

The current roster landscape is fluid, to say the least. With key departures and recent additions like Justin Pippen and Andrija Jelavic, the team is still taking shape. This environment creates a unique opportunity for freshmen to make an immediate impact, especially for a talent like Anthony Thompson. He is projected to step directly into the starting small forward role, where his touted shooting and rebounding will be counted on to stabilize the Buckeye offense from day one.

For Alex Smith, the path may involve more development. Expect him to earn his stripes off the bench, growing into his role as the grueling college season progresses. His journey will be one of adaptation and seizing opportunities, a classic freshman storyline that often defines a player's career trajectory.

The arrival of Thompson and Smith represents more than just new names on the roster; it's an infusion of potential and a reason for optimism. In a sport where roster turnover is the norm, building through high-caliber freshmen is a time-tested strategy for sustained success. How these two navigate their first collegiate challenges will be a compelling subplot for an Ohio State team eager to compete in the revamped Big Ten.