Columbus Wizards Open Gym Sessions Showcase Talent as Team Prepares for Training Camp

As the 2026 season approaches, the Columbus Wizards continue laying the foundation for a competitive and community-driven roster. Over the last several weeks, the organization has hosted a series of open gym sessions — a crucial step in evaluating talent, culture fit, and the identity of the team that will take the floor in The Basketball League (TBL).

Players from across Central Ohio and beyond have stepped into the gym ready to compete: former college standouts, overseas prospects, and experienced minor-league athletes all fighting for an opportunity to wear Wizards teal and purple. The energy has been high, the competition even higher, and the hunger unmistakable.

Leading the evaluation process is Head Coach Ray Corbett, who enters his first year of professional coaching after more than 30 years of success in the high school ranks. Known for his leadership, discipline, and focus on player development, Coach Corbett has embraced this new challenge with purpose and confidence.

“These open gyms have shown me how much talent is in this city,” Coach Corbett said. “But what stands out even more is the character. Guys are competing hard, pushing each other, and showing they want to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Throughout each session, Coach Corbett and the basketball operations staff have evaluated not only skill but professionalism, communication, and how well players fit the culture the Wizards are determined to establish from day one.

“The jump from high school to the professional level is something I’ve been preparing for my entire career,” Corbett added. “The fundamentals don’t change — what changes is the speed, the intensity, and the expectations. And our job is to create an environment where players can rise to that standard.”

Building Toward a 16-Man Training Camp Roster

As evaluations continue, the Wizards plan to bring 16 players into training camp. The roster is already beginning to take shape, with signed commitments from standout players including Alontay Gould, Jalen Robinson, Jay Farrow, and Mat Bingaya, just to name a few. Their mixture of experience, athleticism, and competitive fire has set the tone for what the Wizards expect heading into the season.

These early commitments, combined with the open gym talent, give the Wizards a strong foundation as the coaching and front office staff work toward assembling a roster capable of competing at a high level in year one.

Scouting Continues at the 2026 TBL Draft Combine

The Columbus Wizards will also be in attendance at the 2026 TBL Draft Combine on Sunday, February 1st, where additional prospects will showcase their skills in front of coaches and evaluators from across the league. Players who stand out may receive training camp invitations or even be selected in the TBL Draft if the fit is right.

The combine represents another opportunity for the Wizards to add talent, depth, and potential difference-makers to the roster as the organization looks to finalize the group heading into February.

Training Camp Begins February 5, 2026

The Wizards will officially tip off training camp on February 5, 2026, where selected players will begin system installation, build chemistry, and embrace the standards and expectations that define Columbus Wizards basketball.

What Comes Next

Over the coming weeks, the Wizards will continue player evaluations, film study, and interviews to ensure each athlete reflects the toughness, professionalism, and community-driven mindset that the organization values.

Fans can expect roster announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and training camp updates throughout January and early February.

The identity is forming.

The standard is rising.

And the 2026 Columbus Wizards are taking shape — one open gym at a time.