Ohio State women's basketball has made a significant move to bolster its coaching staff, bringing back two of its all-time greats – Jacy Sheldon and Katie Smith. Sheldon, a former standout guard for the Buckeyes, will take on the role of Director of Player Development, while Smith, a legendary scorer and WNBA champion, will join the team as an assistant coach. This homecoming of Buckeye icons promises to elevate the program and inspire the next generation of players.

Cultivating the Future of Ohio State Basketball

Jacy Sheldon: Guiding the Next Wave of Talent

Jacy Sheldon, a name synonymous with Ohio State basketball, is returning to her alma mater in a full-time capacity. The former Buckeye standout, who recently concluded her professional career with the Dallas Wings, will now serve as the Director of Player Development. In this role, Sheldon will work closely with the current roster, imparting her wealth of knowledge and experience to help the players reach new heights.Sheldon's impact on the program is undeniable. During her time as a Buckeye, she etched her name in the record books, ranking sixth all-time in scoring. Her final season was particularly impressive, as she earned Third-Team All-American honors. Now, she brings that same level of excellence and dedication to the coaching staff, eager to nurture the next generation of Buckeye stars."I couldn't stay away from this program," Sheldon said. "It's an honor to return and work alongside these talented players, helping them develop their skills and reach their full potential. I'm excited to be a part of the next chapter of Ohio State women's basketball."

Katie Smith: A Legendary Mentor Comes Home

Joining Sheldon on the Buckeye coaching staff is the legendary Katie Smith, who will serve as an assistant coach. Smith's name is synonymous with Ohio State basketball, as she ranks third all-time in scoring for the program with an impressive 2,578 points. Her college career was marked by numerous accolades, including Second-Team All-American honors in 1996.After her standout collegiate career, Smith embarked on an illustrious 18-year professional journey, becoming a seven-time WNBA All-Star, four-time All-League selection, and a 2008 WNBA Finals MVP. Her leadership and expertise have continued to shine in the coaching realm, with stints as an assistant and head coach for the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx."It's a dream come true to return to Ohio State and be a part of this program," Smith said. "I have so much love and respect for this university, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to mentor the next generation of Buckeye greats. Together with Jacy, we'll work tirelessly to develop our players and help them reach their full potential."

A Homecoming of Buckeye Legends

The homecoming of Jacy Sheldon and Katie Smith represents a significant moment for Ohio State women's basketball. These two icons, who have left an indelible mark on the program, now have the chance to shape the future of the Buckeyes. Their combined expertise, leadership, and passion for the game will undoubtedly inspire the current roster and attract top-tier talent to Columbus.As Sheldon and Smith take on their new roles, the anticipation within the Buckeye Nation is palpable. Fans eagerly await the impact these two legends will have on the team's performance and the development of individual players. With their guidance and the continued support of the university, the Buckeyes are poised to reach new heights and solidify their status as a powerhouse in women's college basketball.The homecoming of Jacy Sheldon and Katie Smith marks a new era for Ohio State women's basketball, one that promises to be filled with excitement, growth, and a renewed sense of pride for the Scarlet and Gray.