Ohio State has added forward Lee Aaliya, a 6-foot-9, 225-pound forward from Argentina, to its roster for the 2026-27 season. Head coach Jake Diebler's program gains a player with professional experience as it continues to reshape its roster this offseason. The move reflects how aggressively Ohio State has worked the international and transfer markets this cycle, and it gives Diebler another frontcourt option heading into next season.
One report indicates the addition fills the Buckeyes' 15th and final roster spot. That same report states Aaliya is the ninth new player brought in this offseason. The wave of additions follows Ohio State's first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2022 last season, a result that appears to have accelerated the program's roster turnover rather than allowing it to stand pat.
Reporting suggests Aaliya averaged 17.1 points and 9 rebounds at the U19 World Cup in 2023. He has also represented Argentina's national team in the 2025 FIBA AmeriCup and the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers, giving him a level of international competitive experience that is uncommon among incoming college players. He is also said to have helped Atenas de Cordoba reach the Final Four of the South American Basketball Champions League. This past year, one report states he averaged 18.4 points and 9.6 rebounds for UCAM Murcia CB in Spain's Liga Under-22, production that suggests he can contribute right away rather than needing a lengthy adjustment period.
The move is the latest in what one report describes as a major roster overhaul for Diebler. He appears focused on getting Ohio State back to the top of the Big Ten, and the addition of a proven international scorer and rebounder like Aaliya fits that stated goal. Whether the fit translates immediately to Big Ten play remains to be seen, but the profile matches what the program has targeted.