Ohio State is clearly on a mission to bring its best back, or maybe the Buckeye family finds its way back to each other again and again. They are making some big coaching moves with the homecoming of one of their former stars and WNBA rising star, Jacy Sheldon. 

The Ohio State Instagram made it official: “She couldn’t stay away 😁 Buckeye Nation, welcome back one of the best to ever do it in an Ohio State uniform. Our new Director of Player Development, Jacy Sheldon ‼️”

Sheldon now the new Director of Player Development, is former standout player who’s now a pro. Having been drafted fifth overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings, she has been putting pretty impressive numbers in the pros. But why is she here? Well, the 24-year-old explained, “Being a part of the game in a different way and having a different perspective is going to help me develop my WNBA play even more.”

Before she was making waves in the WNBA, Sheldon spent five incredible seasons at Ohio State under coach McGuff. She finished her final year with impressive stats: leading the team with 17.8 points per game, dishing out a team-high of 120 assists, and making 60 three-pointers. Not only did she put up numbers, but she led the Buckeyes in post-season runs like the Elite Eight and Sweet Sixteen. Her performance was anything but ordinary—she ranks among the top 10 Buckeyes in points, free throw percentage, and steals.

Moreover, she is one of just three players in school history to surpass 1,900 points, 400 rebounds, 350 assists, 200 steals, and 150 three-pointers. With stats like that, it’s clear why Ohio State wanted her back. 

Head Coach Kevin McGuff has always been in awe of her and couldn’t be happier to welcome her back. At the time of her senior year, he said, “She’s as special as they come. She’s such a great kid, comes from an incredible family.”

And let us tell you she’ll be one of the few 2024 draftees who won’t be competing in the offseason. Originally, she had planned to play overseas in Australia’s Women’s National Basketball League with the Townsville Fire. However, a leg injury led her to pass on that opportunity. But she isn’t back here alone! 

Katie Smith’s homecoming

Ohio State is also bringing another Buckeye legend back to the coaching staff—Katie Smith. Smith has spent the last 11 years coaching in the WNBA and most recently served as an assistant with the Minnesota Lynx. 

Her accomplishments as a player are legendary: she’s a two-time WNBA champion, a seven-time All-Star, and even earned three Olympic gold medals. As one of Ohio State’s all-time greatest players, Smith is thrilled to return to her alma mater. 

Together, Sheldon and Smith bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a whole lot of Buckeye pride to Ohio State. Smith’s familiarity with the professional level will be invaluable, and Sheldon’s recent transition from collegiate to pro offers a unique perspective.

It’s safe to say that this combination is setting Ohio State up for an exciting season and could prove to be an incredible asset for player development. So, let’s see where this reunion takes OS next season!