COLUMBUS — Ohio State has added two Buckeye alumni to its women’s basketball staff, the university announced Monday. Katie Smith, a former WNBA standout and Neismith Memorial Hall of Famer, joins as an assistant coach, while Jacy Sheldon, fresh off her rookie season in the WNBA with the Dallas Wings, will serve as the team’s director of player development.

Sheldon, who is the daughter of 1988 West Branch High School graduate Laura Laut and granddaughter of former West Branch football coach Jim Laut, will oversee player development and work closely with the coaching staff and athletic support teams. Her role includes mentoring student-athletes, helping foster leadership and work ethic, and supporting personal and athletic growth for success both on and off the court.

“I’m extremely excited to add both Jacy and Katie to the staff,” head coach Kevin McGuff said in a statement. “Their passion for Ohio State will help us continue to compete at the highest level in women’s college basketball.”

Smith returns to Ohio State after 11 seasons coaching in the WNBA, including her recent role as associate head coach for the Minnesota Lynx, who reached the 2024 WNBA Finals. A two-time WNBA champion and three-time Olympic gold medalist, Smith’s coaching experience follows a storied playing career in which she scored 2,578 points at Ohio State and became a two-time WNBA All-Star and Finals MVP.

“Returning to Ohio State is an honor,” Smith said. “This program has been instrumental in my journey, and I’m thrilled to be part of shaping the next generation of Buckeyes.”

Sheldon also brings a strong collegiate legacy to the staff, having helped Ohio State reach the Elite Eight in 2023 for the first time in three decades. Known for her well-rounded performance, Sheldon ranked in Ohio State’s top 15 in 10 different career categories and scored more than 2,000 points.

The No. 5 pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, Sheldon said will continue to play in the WNBA while working for the Buckeyes. In her rookie season with the Wings, Sheldon averaged 5.4 points, 2.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game in 40 games.

“I’m grateful to continue my journey with Ohio State beyond my playing years,” Sheldon said.

The Buckeyes are set to host Charlotte at 6 p.m. today in their season opener at Value City Arena.