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In a massive recruiting victory, the Ohio State women’s basketball program has secured the commitment of five-star guard Daria Biriuk for the 2026 class. The highly sought-after prospect chose the Buckeyes over several powerhouse programs, including South Carolina, LSU, and Tennessee, marking a significant win for head coach Kevin McGuff and his staff.
Biriuk, a 5-foot-11 playmaker, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile guards in her class. With her exceptional ball-handling, court vision, and scoring ability, she has been on the radar of top programs for years. Her decision to commit to Ohio State further solidifies the Buckeyes’ status as a premier destination for elite talent.
A Recruiting Battle with SEC Giants
The recruitment of Biriuk was nothing short of a high-stakes competition among some of the best programs in the country. South Carolina, LSU, and Tennessee were all in hot pursuit of the talented guard, making aggressive pushes to land her commitment. Many analysts viewed the race as a close contest between Ohio State and LSU, but the Buckeyes ultimately emerged victorious.
A major factor in Biriuk’s decision was Ohio State’s fast-paced offensive system and player development program. Sources close to her recruitment indicate that she was particularly drawn to the coaching staff’s vision for her role on the team. In an exclusive statement, Biriuk expressed her excitement about joining the Buckeyes, saying, “The coaching staff made me feel like I could thrive here. I love their vision for me as a player, and I believe this is the best place to grow and compete at the highest level.”
What Biriuk Brings to the Buckeyes
Biriuk’s skill set makes her a perfect fit for Ohio State’s system. Known for her quick decision-making, elite shooting ability, and strong defensive presence, she is expected to make an immediate impact once she arrives in Columbus. Her ability to play both on and off the ball gives the Buckeyes a dynamic option in the backcourt.
Beyond her offensive prowess, Biriuk is also a tenacious defender, using her length and quickness to disrupt opposing guards. Her all-around game makes her an ideal addition to an Ohio State team that has consistently competed at the top of the Big Ten Conference in recent years.
Ohio State’s Growing Reputation in Women’s Basketball
This commitment is another step forward for Ohio State’s women’s basketball program, which has been steadily rising as a national powerhouse under McGuff’s leadership. The Buckeyes have made deep runs in the NCAA Tournament and have developed WNBA-caliber players, which played a significant role in attracting Biriuk.
With this latest addition, Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the nation. The Buckeyes are building a roster that can compete for Big Ten titles and make a serious push for a national championship in the coming years.
Ohio State fans have plenty to be excited about with Biriuk’s arrival on the horizon. Her combination of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ makes her one of the most anticipated recruits in recent memory. As the Buckeyes continue to build a championship-caliber team, Biriuk’s presence will be a crucial part of their success.