The Ohio State basketball program currently has only a handful of alumni making significant contributions in the NBA. Since the departure of longtime head coach Thad Matta, the pipeline of talent to the league has slowed. Chris Holtmann managed to get a few players to the NBA, but none have made a major impact. Now, new head coach Jake Diebler is looking to reverse that trend.
One Buckeye who has maintained a strong presence in the league is Mike Conley Jr. A veteran point guard, Conley was selected fourth overall in the 2007 NBA Draft, just behind his Ohio State teammate Greg Oden, who went first overall. While Oden’s career was derailed by injuries, Conley has enjoyed a long and successful run.
Still a starting point guard, Conley now plays a key role for the Minnesota Timberwolves. In Game 5 of their playoff series against the Golden State Warriors, Conley delivered a standout performance that made Buckeye fans proud.
Ohio State alum Mike Conley leads Timberwolves past Warriors
Conley was instrumental in Minnesota’s series-clinching win, putting up 16 points, six rebounds, and eight assists. He also shot 4-of-6 from three-point range, helping to space the floor and ignite the Timberwolves’ offense. Thanks in large part to his leadership and efficiency, the team has advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the second consecutive year, with their sights set on the NBA Finals.
Despite his long and accomplished career, Conley has never reached the NBA Finals. He came close during his stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and Utah Jazz, but fell short each time. A Finals appearance — and perhaps a championship — would be a monumental milestone for him at this stage.
Ohio State fans would be thrilled to see one of their own finally hoist an NBA trophy. Should the Timberwolves go all the way, it could be the perfect finale to Conley’s impressive career — assuming he chooses to go out on top. For now, Minnesota will continue to count on his steady hand as they chase a historic postseason run.
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