Ohio State's most impactful freshman down the stretch of the season won't be joining classmate Scotty Middleton in the transfer portal.
Devin Royal had two simple words for Ohio State fans about his intentions for next year.
— Devin Royal (@DevinRoyal7) April 3, 2024
Royal averaged 4.7 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11.2 minutes per game as a freshman but saw his production increase after Jake Diebler took over as head coach.
Following a career-high 14 points at Michigan State on Feb. 25, Royal scored at least five points in every Ohio State game until the end of the season. He'd averaged 3.3 points per game in the 24 contests he played prior.
Royal will need to improve his defense this offseason, but if he can make strides, he's the clear favorite to replace Jamison Battle as the team's starting power forward.
A four-star prospect from the shadows of Columbus in Pickerington, Royal ranked 49th among all prospects in the 247Sports composite for the 2023 class. He was the No. 1 player from Ohio.
Royal is the third Buckeye in as many days to declare his dedication to the program for next year, joining center Felix Okpara and point guard Bruce Thornton.
While Royal will provide answers for Ohio State at forward and on the wing, it would still serve the Buckeyes to get some shooting from the wing in the transfer portal. Royal and starting small forward Evan Mahaffey haven't shown to be perimeter threats thus far in their college careers.
Austin Parks will help provide depth at the forward position with Okpara starting at center. An addition down low in the transfer portal could help keep legs fresh and shore up the interior of Ohio State's defense.
