Jared Sullinger retires from basketball to join Ohio State coaching staff

Former NBA player and two-time All-American Jared Sullinger has announced his retirement from professional basketball at age 34. Following his retirement, Sullinger will return to his alma mater, Ohio State University, to join the men’s basketball coaching staff.

Sullinger has been hired by head coach Jake Diebler as the director of player development for the 2026-27 season. Sullinger, who played for the Buckeyes from 2010 to 2012, previously enjoyed a professional career that included four seasons with the Boston Celtics and a stint with the Toronto Raptors, as well as extensive international play in China, South Korea, and Puerto Rico.

In a social media announcement, Sullinger expressed his gratitude for his journey from Columbus to the NBA and beyond, stating, “I’m hanging up the jersey, but I’m not walking away from the game. I’m just changing seats.”