Correction: Somewhere in our editorial process, Oklahoma State was replaced with Ohio State. The Cowboys have been in the mix for Randle for some time, and we apologize for the mistake. The error was completely ours.
In a somewhat unexpected move, highly-touted local basketball prospect Julius Randle took an unofficial visit to Ohio State on Sunday:
5* 2013 PF Julius Randle reportedly on an unofficial visit to OK St today. Interesting as Pokes weren't on radar. Randle a UT, UK target.
— Jeff C. (@JC_Hoops) August 19, 2012
The Buckeyes weren't on what was rumored to be Randle's short list, but that doesn't necessarily mean anything this early in his recruitment process.
Under Thad Matta, Ohio State has become a national power in both basketball and football. Over the last decade, they've sent a huge number of one-and-done prospects to the NBA -- Greg Oden, Kosta Koufos, Mike Conley, Daequan Cook and Byron Mullens -- while also consistently playing deep into the NCAA Tournament.
So while Columbus isn't very close to home and doesn't have quite the same glamour as Lexington or Chapel Hill, it wouldn't necessarily be a huge shock if Randle seriously considers Ohio State.
For more coverage of the recruitment of Randle and the other top players from the Dallas area, stay tuned to the SB Nation Dallas StoryStream.