AJ Clayton Commits to Ohio State: Former Philo Standout Set to Make Major Impact in 2024-25 Season
In a significant move that is sure to bolster Ohio State’s frontcourt, the Buckeyes have secured a commitment from AJ Clayton, the talented 7-foot, 245-pound forward and former Philo High School standout. Clayton, who spent the past season making a name for himself in collegiate basketball, brings both size and skill to a program that is looking to make waves in the Big Ten during the 2024-25 season.
Clayton averaged 12.0 points in 26.3 minutes per game last season, showcasing not only his scoring ability but also his versatility and basketball IQ. His commitment marks a homecoming of sorts, as he returns to the Buckeye State to wear the scarlet and gray—something that fans and coaches alike are excited about.
Born and raised in Duncan Falls, Ohio, Clayton starred at Philo High School where he quickly rose through the ranks as one of the top prospects in the state. His combination of size, strength, and an ever-improving jump shot caught the attention of scouts early on. During his high school years, Clayton was known not just for his dominant performances on the court, but for his leadership and work ethic. That same determination carried over into his college career, where he became a reliable contributor on both ends of the floor.
After an impressive stint at his previous program, Clayton entered the transfer portal with a clear goal in mind: find a place where he could make an immediate impact while continuing to grow under top-tier coaching. Ohio State, recognizing both his potential and his roots in the state, moved quickly to bring him into the fold.
Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler and his staff have been vocal about the need to enhance the team’s size and defensive presence in the paint, and Clayton fits that mold perfectly. At 7-feet tall and weighing 245 pounds, he brings a physical presence that will be invaluable against the Big Ten’s traditionally tough competition.
But Clayton is far from just a big body in the post. His ability to stretch the floor with a mid-range jumper and developing three-point shot makes him a versatile offensive weapon. Defensively, his rim protection and rebounding will help anchor Ohio State’s interior, providing stability the team has sometimes lacked in recent seasons.
“AJ is a tremendous addition to our program,” Diebler said in a statement. “He’s a competitor, a hard worker, and he brings a high basketball IQ to the court. Most importantly, he understands what it means to wear the Ohio State jersey, and he’s ready to embrace that responsibility.”
The 2024-25 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for Ohio State basketball. With several key returning players and a strong incoming class, Clayton’s commitment could be the missing piece that propels the Buckeyes deeper into postseason contention. His presence in the frontcourt gives the team more flexibility in lineups and will allow Diebler to deploy a more physical, inside-out style of play.
Clayton’s decision to come back to Ohio resonates not just with fans, but also with younger athletes across the state. His journey—from a small-town high school standout to a Division I impact player—is an inspiring one, and it reinforces Ohio State’s ability to attract top talent with deep ties to the community.
As the Buckeyes prepare for a highly anticipated season, all eyes will be on AJ Clayton as he dons the scarlet and gray and takes the court in Columbus. For now, Ohio State fans can celebrate a major win in the offseason—one that could pay huge dividends come March.
