Ohio State Women’s Basketball Bolsters Coaching Staff with Iconic Additions

Columbus, OH – A New Era for Buckeye Basketball Begins

In a groundbreaking move that has electrified Buckeye Nation, Ohio State Women’s Basketball has fortified its coaching staff with two of the program’s most celebrated figures. The team officially announced the hiring of Naismith Hall of Famer Katie Smith as an assistant coach, alongside former Buckeye standout Jacy Sheldon, who will take on the role of Director of Player Development.

This strategic move is expected to enhance Ohio State’s competitiveness on the national stage, with Smith’s wealth of experience and Sheldon’s fresh perspective creating a formidable combination. Head Coach Kevin McGuff emphasized the significance of these additions, stating, “Bringing in two individuals who have not only excelled at the highest levels of the game but also deeply understand Buckeye culture is a game-changer for our program.”

With these hires, Ohio State is sending a clear message: they are serious about contending for championships. As fans celebrate and debate the potential impact of these moves, the anticipation for the upcoming season is reaching new heights.

A Buckeye Legend Returns: Katie Smith’s Impact

Katie Smith’s return to Ohio State is nothing short of monumental. The former Buckeye guard, who played for Ohio State from 1992 to 1996, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history. She was a key figure in leading Ohio State to the 1993 NCAA Championship Game as a freshman and went on to establish herself as the school’s all-time leading scorer.

Following her collegiate career, Smith dominated in the WNBA, securing two championships and earning numerous accolades, including multiple All-Star selections and Olympic gold medals. More recently, she built a strong coaching résumé, having served as an assistant with the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty, as well as the head coach of the Liberty from 2018 to 2019.

Now, she brings that experience back to Columbus. Her ability to mentor players, particularly in developing guards and perimeter shooters, will be invaluable to Ohio State’s roster. Smith’s presence on the sideline is expected to inject a championship mentality into the program.

“Katie has done it all,” McGuff noted. “She’s won at every level, and her knowledge of the game is second to none. Our players are going to benefit tremendously from learning from someone of her caliber.”

Jacy Sheldon’s Immediate Return to Columbus

Another exciting addition to the staff is Jacy Sheldon, a fan favorite and one of Ohio State’s recent standout players. Sheldon, who wrapped up her college career in 2024, was a dynamic force for the Buckeyes, known for her elite scoring ability, defensive tenacity, and leadership on the floor.

After being selected by the Dallas Wings in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Sheldon had a brief but promising rookie season before deciding to transition into a developmental role. Her new position as Director of Player Development will allow her to work closely with current players, helping them refine their skills and adapt to the demands of elite college basketball.

For Sheldon, this opportunity represents a unique chance to give back to the program that shaped her. “Ohio State has meant everything to me,” she said in a statement. “I’m excited to continue contributing in a different capacity and help this team reach new heights.”

How These Additions Could Shape Ohio State’s Future

The decision to bring in two Buckeye legends has sparked a wave of excitement and discussion among fans. There are several key areas where these hires could have a major impact:

1. Recruiting Powerhouse

Adding a Hall of Famer and a recent WNBA draftee to the staff will undoubtedly boost Ohio State’s recruiting efforts. Young players dream of learning from the best, and with Smith and Sheldon on board, Ohio State now has two major selling points when competing for top prospects.

2. Player Development

Both Smith and Sheldon bring different but complementary coaching strengths. Smith’s expertise in professional-level tactics and game strategy will help players refine their basketball IQ, while Sheldon, having just played at the collegiate level, can offer insight into the modern game’s evolution.

3. Championship Mentality

Championship pedigree is a crucial element in building a winning program. Smith has won titles at the WNBA and international levels, while Sheldon was a key contributor to Ohio State’s deep NCAA Tournament runs. Their presence instills a winning culture and teaches players what it takes to succeed at the highest levels.

Fan Reactions: Excitement and Debate

As with any major coaching shake-up, reactions from Buckeye Nation have been mixed but largely positive. Many fans see these hires as a step toward national prominence, believing that Smith’s coaching acumen and Sheldon’s youthful energy will provide the perfect balance.

However, some have raised questions about how these additions will affect the current coaching dynamic. Will Smith’s authoritative style blend well with McGuff’s approach? Can Sheldon, fresh off her playing career, transition seamlessly into a developmental role?

Regardless of differing opinions, one thing is clear: Ohio State Women’s Basketball is making bold moves, and the program is trending in an exciting direction.

With the season on the horizon, all eyes will be on how these new additions influence the team’s performance. The Buckeyes are already expected to be a strong contender in the Big Ten Conference, but with Smith and Sheldon joining the staff, expectations have risen even higher.