Four-star in-state forward Devin Royal commits to Ohio State

COLUMBUS — The 2023 recruiting class is starting to take shape for Chris Holtmann and Ohio State. The Buckeyes landed a potential cornerstone piece Wednesday: Devin Royal has committed to the Buckeyes

The four-star Pickerington Central (Ohio) forward chose Ohio State over Michigan State, Alabama and others. Royal is the first power forward committed to the 2023 class for coach Chris Holtmann and is a major addition to the now three-man class.

Devin Royal is the No. 26 rated prospect in the country and the No. 1 player in Ohio according to On3.

Royal joins George Washington III and Austin Parks in the Buckeyes 2023 class, which ranks twenty-fifth nationally and fifth in the Big Ten. Royal is the first power forward to commit to Ohio State since Kalen Etzler in the 2021 class.

All signs pointed toward Ohio State for Royal according to On3 National Recruiting Analyst Jamie Shaw. Royal recently played in Nike’s Peach Jam tournament in South Carolina, where Chris Holtmann was in attendance to watch the talented rising senior. Per Shaw’s report, Royal left South Carolina with a sense of where he wanted to take his playing career to.

The 6-foot-6, 205-pound prospect capped off an incredible junior season at Pickerington Central, a Columbus suburban school, with a 20-point performance in the Ohio Division I state championship, leading the Tigers won the title. Royal averaged 19.6 points per game and 8.4 rebounds per game as a junior, leaving plenty of room for more in his final year.

His skill set is impressive and his scouting report by On3 is a clear indication that there’s a high ceiling for Royal.

Devin Royal has long arms and a strong frame. The 6-foot-6 forward is an advanced scorer with a great feel. He has touch and range off the catch from three. Royal moves well off the ball, finds the open space in the defense, has great balance, and is squared up at the basket. The foot speed may be a question and would like to see him rebound at a higher rate. He is a tweener forward, but his offensive feel would allow him to play either way. He is a bonafide top 100 talent.

Devin Royal scouting report via On3.

Devin Royal knew where he wanted to play college ball on his way home from South Carolina.

And he’s staying home with Ohio State.