Ohio State’s Gabe Cupps Enters Transfer Portal After One Season
Gabe Cupps, a guard for the Ohio State Buckeyes, has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal. This move comes after a season that saw him struggle to make a significant impact on the team. The transfer portal opens on April 7, 2026, allowing him to seek new opportunities.
Demand for Depth in Ohio State’s Backcourt
Cupps completed his season ranked as the fourth guard in Ohio State’s rotation. He played an average of 12.3 minutes per game, posting 1.7 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. Notably, he shot 37.8% from the field, reflecting a need for improvement.
Background and Early Career
- Gabe Cupps is a 6-2 redshirt sophomore.
- He began his collegiate career at Indiana, starting as a freshman during the 2023-24 season.
- During his first year, he averaged 2.6 points and 1.2 assists per game.
- A torn meniscus sidelined him for much of his second season, leading to a medical redshirt.
- Cupps was recognized as a former Ohio Mr. Basketball and was ranked No. 94 in the 247Sports composite rankings for 2023.
Implications for Ohio State’s Roster
With Cupps entering the transfer portal, the Buckeyes will need to reassess their backcourt strategy. Tasion Chatman is expected to step up as the No. 2 guard. Last season, he averaged 4.3 points per game, shooting 46% from the field.
Ohio State is faced with the challenge of finding a veteran guard to complement starter John Mobley Jr. The team’s depth, which faltered during the previous season, requires bolstering to avoid similar issues in the future.
Recent Departures and Returns
Cupps is the third player from Ohio State to enter the transfer portal, joining forward Devin Royal and Colin White. In contrast, Amare Bynum and John Mobley Jr. have confirmed their return to the team. Mobley has declared for the NBA draft while keeping his college eligibility intact.
The Buckeyes and their coaching staff will need to navigate these changes carefully as they prepare for the next season.
