COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio State freshman guard Mathieu Grujicic is rapidly adjusting to the college game, bringing a unique skillset and international perspective to the Buckeyes’ roster. the French-born, German-raised player speaks five languages and harbors a deep thankfulness for classic NBA basketball, factors he believes will contribute to his success in Columbus.
Grujicic,who chose Ohio State despite NCAA transfer rules initially preventing summer participation with the team,embraced the program’s culture and bonded with teammates during that period. “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Grujicic stated regarding his decision.
Head coach Jake Diebler has been impressed with Grujicic’s progress. “I’ve been really impressed sence that first Monday…just how much he’s improved in understanding what we’re doing,” Diebler said. He noted the challenge of evaluating Grujicic’s development given his limited practice time due to NCAA regulations and commitments to the German U18 national team.
this summer, Grujicic showcased his abilities while representing Team Germany at the U18 European championships, averaging 23.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, including two 30-point performances.
The transition to the college game has primarily involved adjusting to the pace of play. “not necessarily the playstyle, just the play speed,” Grujicic explained. “We play very, very fast. And also, considering the fact that I was playing in Spain…knowing that this year is still a lot faster than it was in Spain.”
Having spent the last three years away from home, first in Spain, Grujicic reports no feelings of homesickness.”I’ve been gone from home the last three years…I wouldn’t say that the homesickness plays a part. I haven’t been homesick,and coming to the states was something that I had planned and that I had worked for for so long that I feel like I’m just happy to be here and embracing every moment.” He acknowledged the time difference presents a challenge for dialog with family.
As of October 1, Grujicic anticipates a versatile role within the team, identifying himself as one of approximately “five dudes” capable of handling ball-handling and distribution duties. He emphasized the team’s overall shooting ability, and highlighted his own strengths: ”I just think I bring versatility with my size, with my skill set, and a little bit of everything. I gotta get better on defense,but I will bring more on defense here than people have seen from me before,and then on offense it’s shooting,passing and rebounding.”
