Ohio State
Scout Report
When a 6-4 combo guard lands at one of the nation's premier prep programs and immediately attracts attention from college basketball's elite, there's clearly something special brewing.
Background
Hailing from the small town of Mouth Of Wilson, Virginia, LJ Smith made the significant decision to transfer to Oak Hill Academy, one of the most respected basketball prep schools in the country. The move has placed him alongside some of the nation's top talent, including fellow highly-ranked prospects Marcus Johnson, Isaac Smith, and Ethan Mgbako. Playing for the Warriors has provided Smith with the platform and competition level needed to showcase his abilities against elite competition on a nightly basis.
Playing Style
Smith brings an intriguing combination of size and versatility at the combo guard position, standing 6-4 with the ability to play both backcourt spots effectively. His length allows him to see over defenses and create mismatches when posting up smaller guards, while his guard skills enable him to handle the ball and facilitate for teammates. The Virginia native possesses good court vision and basketball IQ, making smart decisions with the ball in his hands. His physical tools and positional flexibility make him an attractive prospect who can adapt to different roles depending on team needs.
Recruitment
Smith's recruitment exploded with 18 Division I offers from some of college basketball's most prestigious programs, ultimately choosing to commit to Ohio State over a loaded list that included North Carolina, Kansas, Indiana, and Georgia among others. His #27 national ranking in the class of 2027 reflects his upside and potential impact at the next level. The Buckeyes secured a versatile guard who should have the physical tools and skill set to contribute early in his college career.
Updated Feb 17, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Career Journey
Ohio State
COLLEGE
Oak Hill Academy
PREP SCHOOL
Team Melo
AAU
Career Highlights
L.J. Smith, the No. 10 ranked player in the SC Next 60 for the Class of 2027, has committed to Ohio State
Ohio State signee LJ Smith '27 competing at the Arby's Classic 2025
2027 5⭐️ CG LJ Smith Ohio State commit out of Oak Hill Academy is a consistent offensive threat
Some standouts from A Very Melo Classic: 2027 LJ Smith (Oak Hill/Ohio St)
#OhioState commit
Ohio State 2027 commit LJ Smith is fourth in scoring in EYBL Scholastic at 18.1 PPG
Offers
18
Ohio State
Committed
Chose Ohio State over 17 other offers
Georgia
Indiana
Kansas
Mississippi State
North CarolinaHighlights
Social Activity
LJ Smith (@LJSmith23972065): 4 threes. Constant pressure. Defense couldn’t relax for a second. Ohio State commit = certified shooter 🏀 https://t.co/wF9C4QpZiu
EYBL Scholastic scoring leaders 👀 https://x.com/NikeEYB/status/2021722363839058394/photo/1
Oak Hill Academy (VA) LJ Smith (@LJSmith23972065): 19 PTS, 3 REB, 3 AST @OakHillHoops @athleteaiapp https://x.com/4qhcaden/status/2021339154697900418/photo/1
Oak Hill Academy (VA) LJ Smith (@LJSmith23972065): 16 PTS, 4 REB, 3 AST @OakHillHoops @athleteaiapp https://x.com/4qhcaden/status/2021329685200650634/photo/1
Ohio State commit LJ Smith only gets better as the game goes on. He closes the first half with a bucket. @NikeEYB https://t.co/2ADMFpipAc