Devin Royal Finds His New Home in the Big East, Commits to Villanova

Devin Royal is heading to the Big East. The former Ohio State forward, who spent three years wearing the Scarlet and Gray in Columbus, has committed to play his final season of collegiate eligibility at Villanova, closing the book on a productive chapter with the Buckeyes and opening a new one in Philadelphia.

Royal, a native of Pickerington, Ohio, steadily improved during his time in Columbus. After carving out a role in the rotation as a freshman, his production climbed each season, culminating in a 2025-26 campaign where he posted 13.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Those numbers positioned him as a reliable two-way contributor for an Ohio State team that leaned on his versatility and energy.

His decision to enter the transfer portal came as something of a surprise given his standing within the program. However, sources close to the situation indicated that the arrival of 5-star freshman Anthony Thompson created a crowded picture in the Buckeyes frontcourt, potentially pushing Royal toward a reserve role in his senior season. Rather than accept reduced minutes, the Columbus product opted to explore his options.

Villanova, a program with a rich history of sustained excellence in the Big East, presented an attractive landing spot. The Wildcats have long been regarded as one of the premier programs in college basketball, and Royal will step into a system that values hard-nosed defense and unselfish play. For a player looking to rebuild his trajectory and showcase his full skill set on a bigger stage, there are far worse destinations.

Royal is not the only movement in the Ohio State program this spring. While he prepares for his transition to Villanova, the Buckeyes have been active in the transfer portal themselves, bringing in new faces to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. The comings and goings reflect the modern reality of college basketball, where roster turnover has become the norm rather than the exception.

For Royal, this move represents both a fresh start and a chance to compete immediately at a high level. He proved over three seasons that he can score, rebound, and affect games in multiple ways. Now the challenge shifts to translating that production into the Big East, one of the most competitive conferences in the country. If his trajectory at Ohio State is any indication, the Villanova faithful have reason to be excited about what is coming to the Main Line.

Royal is expected to be available immediately as a graduate transfer, giving him one final season to leave his mark on collegiate basketball.