Mathieu Grujicic, a Serbian Prospect, Departs Barcelona to Attend Ohio State

In a move that highlights the increasingly global nature of college basketball, Serbian guard Mathieu Grujicic has officially departed from Spanish powerhouse FC Barcelona to begin a new chapter with the Ohio State Buckeyes. The highly touted European prospect made headlines across the basketball community with his decision to leave the elite youth development pipeline in Europe for the exposure and competition of NCAA basketball. For both Grujicic and Ohio State, the move represents a pivotal moment with significant implications.

Grujicic’s story is emblematic of the new breed of international talent: fundamentally sound, basketball-savvy, and unafraid to leap into the American college system in pursuit of long-term development and NBA dreams. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing around 200 pounds, the Serbian guard combines the poise of a seasoned floor general with the athleticism and versatility needed to thrive in the modern game. His departure from Barcelona, one of the most respected clubs in European basketball, marks the end of one phase and the beginning of another as he transitions into the college game with one of the United States’ premier programs.

Raised in Belgrade, Serbia, Grujicic began playing basketball at the age of six. He joined the youth academy of Crvena zvezda, one of Serbia’s most storied clubs, where his early talent was immediately apparent. By the time he was 13, he had already begun attracting attention from scouts across Europe. At age 15, he transferred to FC Barcelona’s youth system, widely regarded as one of the top development pipelines for young talent aiming for the EuroLeague or NBA.

At Barcelona, Grujicic quickly rose through the ranks. Playing for the club’s U18 and reserve teams, he demonstrated not only high-level skill but also a remarkable basketball IQ. Coaches praised his maturity, leadership, and unselfish play—qualities that made him a standout in tournaments such as the Adidas Next Generation Tournament and the Junior EuroLeague circuit. In one tournament game, he posted an impressive triple-double: 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, a stat line that underscored his all-around potential.

Grujicic’s style of play is a blend of European fundamentals and emerging athleticism. He is known for his tight handle, excellent court vision, and consistent perimeter shooting. Though not a freak athlete in the traditional American sense, he more than makes up for it with timing, positioning, and effort. His defensive instincts, particularly his ability to read passing lanes and disrupt ball handlers, make him an asset on both ends of the floor.

While his rise through Barcelona’s system opened a clear path to professional basketball in Europe, Grujicic had his sights set higher. In interviews and behind closed doors, he had often expressed a desire to challenge himself in the NCAA, where he would face a different style of play and a more physically demanding environment. The NBA was always the goal—and the NCAA, for him, offered a proving ground.

Enter Ohio State.

The Buckeyes, led by head coach Jake Diebler, have shown increasing interest in international talent as they seek to add diversity and depth to their rosters. With a need for a multi-positional guard who could contribute immediately, they aggressively pursued Grujicic. The relationship was nurtured over months of Zoom calls, film breakdowns, and in-person meetings during scouting trips to Europe. What sealed the deal, according to sources familiar with the recruitment, was the sense of trust and vision Ohio State offered—not just for the next year, but for Grujicic’s long-term development.

Grujicic, who officially signed with the Buckeyes in early June, arrives on campus this summer with an opportunity to play major minutes. Though still a freshman, his experience playing against grown professionals in Spain gives him a maturity edge over many of his American counterparts. He will likely compete for minutes at both guard spots and possibly even at the wing depending on lineup configurations. Ohio State’s system, which emphasizes ball movement, defensive pressure, and transition offense, should suit him well.

The decision to come to America was not made lightly. Grujicic weighed several options, including signing a professional deal in Europe or entering the NBA G League Ignite program. But for him, the college experience offered something unique: a chance to grow personally and athletically while showcasing his abilities on a global stage.

In addition to the basketball benefits, Grujicic also valued the academic opportunity at Ohio State. A polyglot who speaks Serbian, Spanish, English, and some French, he has expressed interest in studying international business or political science. His intellectual curiosity mirrors his disciplined approach to the game—a detail that has earned him admiration from coaches and trainers alike.

Teammates at Ohio State have already noted his competitive edge and calm under pressure. In early team workouts, Grujicic has impressed with his ability to run the offense and make reads quickly. Veterans on the squad have praised his basketball IQ and willingness to listen, while coaches have lauded his conditioning and preparation.

Grujicic’s arrival also symbolizes Ohio State’s broader recruiting philosophy in recent years: go global. While the Buckeyes have historically relied on Midwest talent and top-tier national recruits, they’ve begun to explore international avenues more frequently. The success of players like Gonzaga’s Rui Hachimura and Arizona’s Lauri Markkanen has shown that international stars can thrive in the NCAA and transition to the NBA. Grujicic could be the next in line.

While it’s far too early to make definitive projections, NBA scouts will be watching closely. The Serbian guard has already appeared on early mock drafts as a potential first-round pick in 2026 if he continues to develop. His size, skill, and composure make him a compelling prospect in a league increasingly valuing playmakers with versatility.

Back in Europe, reactions to his departure have been mixed. Some coaches in Spain and Serbia viewed his decision as a loss for European basketball development, arguing that he was poised to become a EuroLeague star. But others see it as a bold step that may open doors for other European prospects considering NCAA programs. Regardless of the viewpoint, one thing is clear: Mathieu Grujicic is no longer a hidden gem—he’s center stage now.

His adjustment to the American game won’t be without challenges. The physicality, speed, and pace of college basketball differ significantly from the tactical, half-court-oriented European style. But if there’s one thing Grujicic has shown time and time again, it’s adaptability. Whether it was adjusting to life in Spain or elevating his game against older, more experienced players, he’s consistently risen to the occasion.

As Ohio State prepares for the 2025–26 season, fans and analysts alike are eager to see what role Grujicic will play. He brings not just talent, but also a sense of international flair, professionalism, and humility. His path from Belgrade to Barcelona and now to Columbus reflects not only his journey but the evolving nature of the game itself.

Basketball is no longer bound by geography. Talent knows no borders, and in the case of Mathieu Grujicic, the journey across continents is just the beginning of what promises to be a compelling, exciting career.