Austin Parks of Ohio State is the first Buckeye to use the transfer portal this year.

Austin Parks’ decision to enter the transfer portal marks a pivotal moment in his basketball career, as he embarks on a new chapter after spending two seasons at Ohio State. His time with the Buckeyes, while relatively short, has been filled with ups and downs, including injuries that limited his on-court contributions. However, his decision to leave the program is part of the larger trend in college basketball, where players constantly reassess their opportunities and future prospects, often looking for better fits for their skills and aspirations.

A Look Back at Austin Parks’ Ohio State Journey

When Austin Parks committed to Ohio State in 2023, he came to the program with high expectations, as a top-tier recruit out of St. Marys, Ohio. At 6-foot-10 and 260 pounds, Parks had the physical presence and potential to be a standout center in the Big Ten. His size alone made him an intriguing prospect for the Buckeyes, who were looking to bolster their frontcourt with a player who could provide rebounding and shot-blocking abilities.

However, the transition to college basketball wasn’t without its challenges. Parks found himself buried on a deep roster that included experienced big men, which limited his opportunities early on. Over the course of two seasons, Parks appeared in 24 games for Ohio State, averaging just 1.3 points and 0.9 rebounds per game. His playing time averaged only around 8.3 minutes per game in his sophomore season, with only a handful of appearances where he played substantial minutes.

Beyond the numbers, Parks struggled with injuries that prevented him from fully developing and showcasing his talent. Injuries are often a significant hurdle for young athletes, and for Parks, they may have played a major role in his decision to seek a fresh start. Despite these challenges, Parks has expressed gratitude for his time at Ohio State, indicating that he has learned valuable life lessons and formed lasting relationships with teammates and coaches.

Why the Transfer Portal?

The transfer portal has become a central aspect of college basketball in recent years, offering players the chance to explore new opportunities when they feel their current situation no longer serves their best interests. For Parks, the decision to enter the portal likely comes down to a desire for more playing time and an expanded role on the court.

At Ohio State, Parks was part of a team that faced significant struggles during the 2024-2025 season, including missing the NCAA Tournament for the third year in a row. While Parks was certainly not the primary reason for the team’s struggles, his limited role and inability to crack the rotation likely contributed to his decision. College basketball players are often under pressure to make decisions that will allow them to maximize their potential, both in terms of playing time and future professional prospects. Given his talent, Parks probably believes that finding a program that can offer him more consistent playing time and a chance to make a bigger impact will better prepare him for the next steps in his basketball career.

Parks’ departure is also a reflection of the broader shift in college basketball, where the transfer portal has fundamentally changed the dynamics of team rosters. Players no longer have to stay at a program where they may not feel like they fit, and the portal allows them to move freely between schools in search of a better opportunity. For Parks, this is an opportunity to find a program that can provide the resources and environment necessary for him to reach his full potential as a player.

The Impact on Ohio State

Parks’ decision to transfer is significant not only for him but also for Ohio State’s basketball program. Ohio State has seen several roster changes in recent years, with various players opting to leave the program for different reasons. Parks’ departure marks the first for the 2024-2025 season, and his absence leaves a gap in the frontcourt that the Buckeyes will need to fill as they look to retool their roster for next season.

With Parks gone, Ohio State now has five players remaining who are capable of playing the forward or center positions. This group includes Bradshaw, Stewart, Njegovan, Devin Royal, and Colin White. These players will likely be expected to step up and fill the minutes left behind by Parks, but the Buckeyes will still need to find additional depth to remain competitive in the Big Ten.

The departure of a player like Parks could also serve as a sign that Ohio State is looking to build its future with a new set of players, potentially through the transfer portal. It’s not uncommon for teams to reload after losing players to the portal, especially when there is a need to improve specific areas such as depth, scoring, or rebounding. Head coach Jake Diebler and his staff will be actively monitoring the portal in search of players who can help Ohio State get back on track after a disappointing season.

What’s Next for Austin Parks?

As Austin Parks moves on to the next stage of his basketball career, all eyes will be on where he chooses to play next. With his size and potential, Parks could be an appealing option for many programs looking to bolster their frontcourt. His decision will likely come down to several factors, including the style of play at his next school, the competition for playing time, and the overall culture of the program. Parks has expressed a desire to find a place where he can contribute more significantly, and many teams across the country will be vying for the opportunity to bring him in.

It’s also worth considering that Parks’ decision could be influenced by his future goals, both in basketball and beyond. Some players may prioritize finding a program with strong player development systems, while others may be looking for a more supportive environment that fits their personal and academic aspirations. For Parks, the next step in his journey could be critical in shaping not only his athletic career but also his future after college basketball.

The Broader Trend of the Transfer Portal

Parks is not the only player to utilize the transfer portal this year, as college basketball has become increasingly defined by roster turnover. The ease with which players can switch teams has created a more fluid and dynamic landscape in college athletics, where players have more control over their careers. For many, the portal offers a way to find a better fit when things aren’t working out at their current school, and this trend is expected to continue.

The impact of the transfer portal on teams has been mixed. While it allows schools to rebuild quickly by bringing in new talent, it also creates challenges in terms of team chemistry and continuity. Coaches must now focus not only on developing talent within their current roster but also on managing the portal to ensure they are attracting the right players who can contribute to the program’s long-term success.

Ohio State is no stranger to the transfer portal, and the coaching staff will likely be making moves of their own to ensure that the team remains competitive in the Big Ten. Parks’ decision to transfer may be the first, but it likely won’t be the last as more players reassess their situations in the coming months.

Austin Parks’ decision to enter the transfer portal is a significant moment for both him and Ohio State. While his time with the Buckeyes may not have been as successful as many had hoped, it marks a new beginning for the talented center. The transfer portal has become an essential tool for college basketball players seeking to find the right fit for their talents and ambitions, and Parks is no exception. As he moves on to his next destination, it will be fascinating to see where he lands and what kind of impact he can make at his new school.

For Ohio State, Parks’ departure underscores the need to continue rebuilding and improving the roster. With a renewed focus on player development and recruiting, the Buckeyes will be looking to create a more competitive environment as they prepare for the 2025 season. Whether Parks finds greater success at another program or returns to the spotlight at Ohio State, his decision to transfer highlights the shifting landscape of college basketball and the importance of finding the right environment for growth and success.