
From Blue Devil to Buckeye: Sean Stewart Makes Shock Transfer to Ohio State

In a surprising offseason shake-up, former Duke forward Sean Stewart has officially announced his transfer to Ohio State, sending ripples through the college basketball world and adding firepower to a rising Buckeyes squad under head coach Jake Diebler.
Stewart, a 6-foot-9 powerhouse and former five-star recruit, spent his freshman year with the Blue Devils but saw limited playing time in a crowded frontcourt. Now, he’s headed to Columbus with a fresh start and a clear mission: to prove he’s more than just potential.
“I’m excited for what’s next,” Stewart shared in a statement. “Ohio State feels like home already. I’m ready to work, grow, and help bring something special to Buckeye Nation.”
### A New Beginning
Stewart’s move is part of a larger narrative this offseason: talented young players seeking the right fit, the right opportunity, and a coaching staff that believes in their long-term value. For Stewart, Ohio State checked all those boxes.
With his athleticism, rebounding ability, and high ceiling, Stewart brings immediate upside to the Buckeyes. Analysts predict he could be a breakout star in the Big Ten next season—especially with the departure of several key conference forwards to the NBA.
“He’s a game-changer,” said a source close to the Ohio State program. “Sean didn’t get the minutes at Duke, but the tools are there. He has the chance to be special.”
### What Ohio State Gains
The Buckeyes, coming off a rollercoaster 2024-25 season, have quietly reloaded their roster through the transfer portal and high school recruiting. Adding Stewart to the mix gives them a versatile forward who can guard multiple positions, run the floor, and bring energy on both ends.
Diebler, who took over full-time this past season and has already earned the respect of players and fans alike, seems to be building something meaningful. Stewart’s arrival only reinforces that.
“This isn’t just a win for us on the court,” Diebler said in a team release. “Sean is a high-character young man who fits exactly what we’re building here. Our culture, our work ethic—he’s the right guy.”
### Fans React
As the news broke on social media, fans across Buckeye Nation flooded platforms with excitement.
Duke fans, meanwhile, expressed mixed emotions—many wishing Stewart well while acknowledging his untapped potential was never fully unlocked in Durham.
### What’s Next?
With months until the season tips off, Stewart has already begun working with the team in Columbus and is expected to take on a major role from day one. If he lives up to expectations, he could go from promising transfer to NBA prospect in just one season.
Thing are turning interesting and in the ever-changing world of college hoops, one player’s move might just be the spark that turns a good team into a great one.