Sean Stewart’s path from Montverde Academy to Duke and now Ohio State is a testament to his drive and ambition
With elite prep credentials, international experience, and a strong freshman season under his belt, he enters his sophomore year with both opportunity and expectation.
The Buckeyes will look to Stewart for energy, defense, rebounding, and leadership. And if his trajectory continues, college basketball fans—and perhaps soon, NBA franchises—may see a breakout campaign from a player ready to make his mark.
Whether it’s throwing down a powerful dunk, contesting a key shot, or pulling down a crucial rebound, Stewart has all the tools to become a standout player in the Big Ten. And this season could be the one where it all comes together.
Both Ashtyn and Sean are navigating the pressures of elite college athletics while building a meaningful relationship.
They’re not just rising stars in their sports; they’re a young couple whose mutual support may be a key ingredient in their ongoing success.
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Table of Contents
Sean Stewart: Who Is He?
From High School Stardom to Big Ten Spotlight
Sean Stewart has swiftly emerged as one of the more intriguing young forwards in college basketball.1
Now a sophomore playing for the Ohio State Buckeyes in the highly competitive Big Ten Conference, Stewart is building on a foundation established during an impressive high school career and a freshman season at Duke University.
With a strong pedigree, national team experience, and clear athletic gifts, Stewart is beginning to show flashes of the potential that once made him a top-25 recruit in the nation.
LETS GET TO WORK !! @TheFoundation1_ @OhioStateHoops pic.twitter.com/w8nQVN39IF
— Sean Stewart (@Sean13Stewart) May 3, 2024
Early Years and High School Success
Before stepping onto a college basketball court, Sean Stewart had already garnered national attention for his skill, work ethic, and natural athleticism.
Stewart played his high school basketball at Montverde Academy in Florida, a powerhouse prep program known for developing elite college and NBA talent.
Montverde has produced stars like Ben Simmons, Cade Cunningham, and Scottie Barnes, and Stewart added his name to that storied list with his dominant play in the frontcourt.
A dynamic and versatile big man, Stewart demonstrated a well-rounded game at Montverde. His ability to rebound, protect the rim, and run the floor made him an ideal modern forward.
Stewart’s motor and physical tools set him apart, and his effort on both ends of the court caught the attention of scouts and college programs nationwide.
Sean Stewart: Achievements
Five-Star Status and National Recognition
Stewart’s on-court performances didn’t go unnoticed. He earned a five-star rating as a high school prospect and was ranked No. 21 in the 2023 recruiting class by 247Sports.2
His national recognition reached a pinnacle when he was selected as a McDonald’s All-American—an honor reserved for the best high school players in the United States.
Being named a McDonald’s All-American is more than just a ceremonial accolade. It placed Stewart in the same company as legends like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Davis, signifying the expectations placed on his future.
Making His Mark on the International Stage
In addition to his success in the U.S., Stewart gained valuable experience representing his country. He was selected to join the USA U-17 National Team and participated in the 2022 FIBA U-17 Basketball World Cup held in Spain.
Playing against the best international talent, Stewart helped lead Team USA to a gold medal. This experience was instrumental in his development—it not only tested his skills but also gave him a taste of international basketball pressure and competition.
Contributing to a gold medal campaign further proved that Stewart could thrive under high expectations.
Freshman Year at Duke: A Year of Growth
- In 2023, Stewart began his collegiate career at Duke University, one of the most storied programs in NCAA history.
- The Blue Devils have long been known for recruiting elite high school players and preparing them for the professional level, and Stewart’s decision to join Duke was in line with his ambition to take his game to new heights.
- As a freshman during the 2023-24 season, Stewart played in 33 games, a sign that he earned the trust of the coaching staff in a rotation loaded with talent.
- Although he didn’t start or log heavy minutes, Stewart made the most of his time on the floor, averaging 2.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game while shooting over 57% from the field.
- His efficient shooting percentage suggests a player who understands his role—focusing on high-percentage shots near the basket, crashing the boards, and doing the little things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet.
- For a freshman, especially in a loaded program like Duke, those are encouraging signs.
Transition to Ohio State: A Fresh Opportunity
Following his freshman year, Stewart made the decision to transfer to Ohio State. With the Buckeyes, he steps into a new system, a new role, and a new challenge.
For many players, a change of scenery can unlock untapped potential—and that appears to be Stewart’s goal in Columbus.
Ohio State, a respected Big Ten contender, offers Stewart a chance for a bigger role and greater visibility. In the physical, fast-paced world of Big Ten basketball, Stewart’s athleticism and defensive instincts could make him a valuable asset for the Buckeyes on both ends of the court.
The move also indicates that Stewart is seeking an environment where he can continue to grow his game and make a more consistent impact on the floor.
What Sean Stewart Brings to the Buckeyes?
At 6-foot-9 with long arms and strong leaping ability, Sean Stewart is the type of forward who fits perfectly into today’s college and professional schemes.3
He can defend multiple positions, switch on pick-and-rolls, protect the rim, and score efficiently near the basket.
His rebounding is another key strength. Stewart averaged over three boards per game in limited minutes as a freshman, which indicates his potential to become a dominant rebounder with increased playing time.
His ability to grab offensive boards and create second-chance opportunities can be a game-changer in tight matchups.
In addition, his experience at Duke and with the USA national team gives him an edge when it comes to poise and basketball IQ. Stewart has played under pressure in front of national audiences and in international competitions, making him more mature than his years might suggest.
Areas for Growth and Development
Though Stewart has already shown a strong foundation, there are areas of his game that he’ll be looking to improve as he continues his college career.
One key area is his offensive versatility. Expanding his shooting range and developing a consistent mid-range or three-point shot would elevate his game significantly and make him a more complete offensive threat.
Additionally, his passing and decision-making will be crucial as he takes on a larger role. Being able to make smart reads out of the post, facilitate for teammates, and avoid turnovers will make him an even more valuable piece in Ohio State’s offensive scheme.
If Stewart can refine those aspects of his game while continuing to dominate defensively and on the boards, he could emerge as one of the top forwards in the Big Ten and raise his profile for the next level.
Big Ten Potential and Beyond
The 2024-25 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for Sean Stewart. With more minutes, increased responsibilities, and a new coaching staff investing in his development, he has a prime opportunity to take a major leap forward.
Big Ten competition is known for being tough and physically demanding, but it also serves as an ideal proving ground for elite prospects.
NBA scouts will undoubtedly be watching to see how Stewart adapts and grows. His physical tools and high school pedigree already put him on the radar, but consistent production at Ohio State will elevate his draft stock significantly.
More than just a college player, Stewart’s journey is a narrative of steady progress, resilience, and high-level experience. If he can harness all of those attributes and put them together on the court, the sky’s the limit for his basketball career.
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Sean Stewart and His Relationship with Ashtyn Sims
A Promising Young Couple in Collegiate Sports
In the world of collegiate athletics, where young athletes juggle the demands of academics, competition, and growing public attention, the relationships they form can provide both support and motivation.
One such relationship that has recently caught the public eye is that of college basketball player Sean Stewart and Ashtyn Sims, a rising star in collegiate volleyball.
Their connection isn’t just a fleeting mention on social media; it’s a growing bond shared publicly and proudly.
From heartfelt Instagram stories to shared support in their respective sports, Sean and Ashtyn seem to be a couple that thrives both individually and together.
The Social Media Spotlight: Sean Stewart’s Public Affection
Sean Stewart, a highly regarded college basketball player known for his athleticism and court presence, doesn’t shy away from showing appreciation for his girlfriend.
On his Instagram profile, Sean has dedicated a highlight section specifically to Ashtyn Sims. These highlights feature a collection of moments—from cozy selfies to game-day support—that give fans a small peek into their personal life.
In an era where athletes often guard their private lives, Sean’s openness demonstrates the strong connection they share.
It also offers fans a more humanizing look at their favorite athlete, showing that behind the competitive spirit lies a young man deeply in love and inspired by someone special.
Who Is Ashtyn Sims?
An Introduction to the Princeton Volleyball Player
Ashtyn Sims is more than just “Sean Stewart’s girlfriend.” She’s carving out her own identity as a collegiate athlete.
A freshman at Princeton University, she currently plays for the Princeton Women’s Volleyball Team as an outside hitter. Her journey to the Ivy League speaks volumes about both her academic and athletic dedication.
Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, Ashtyn attended Windermere School, a respected institution known for its academic excellence and robust sports programs. Her high school journey prepared her well for the transition to Ivy League competition.
Ashtyn’s Freshman Season: Making Her Mark Early
Though just a freshman, Ashtyn Sims made her debut season in 2024 a memorable one.
According to her official Princeton Volleyball roster, she appeared in eight matches and played 15 sets, registering impressive stats for a first-year collegiate athlete.
Her record includes 23 kills, nine digs, and five blocks, showing her versatility and effectiveness on both offense and defense. These numbers highlight her potential to grow into a key player for Princeton in the years to come.
Balancing a demanding sport like volleyball with the rigorous academics at Princeton is no small feat. Yet, Ashtyn seems to manage it with poise, showing that she has the mental and physical toughness required to excel in both fields.
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The Athletic Pedigree: A Family Rooted in Sports
Ashtyn’s success in athletics may be attributed in part to her impressive sports lineage.
Her mother, Crystal Davidson, was a college basketball player at Auburn University, while her father, Alandus Sims, played college football at Georgia State.
Growing up in such a sports-oriented household likely played a significant role in shaping Ashtyn’s athletic ambitions.
With parents who understand the intensity of collegiate sports, Ashtyn has had the advantage of firsthand mentorship and support.
It’s also notable that her sister, Alexis Gosha, followed a similar path and played volleyball at Florida A&M University (FAMU). Clearly, athleticism runs in the Sims family.
This strong family foundation not only contributes to Ashtyn’s performance on the court but also helps her navigate the pressures and challenges of being a student-athlete at a prestigious university.
From Orlando to Princeton: A Journey of Determination
Making the leap from a Florida high school to one of the most prestigious universities in the country is no small transition. Yet, Ashtyn managed to do so seamlessly, a testament to her work ethic and talent.
Growing up in Orlando, she was likely surrounded by strong athletic programs, and Windermere School’s competitive environment helped shape her game.
Princeton, with its elite academic standards and competitive Ivy League sports environment, has given Ashtyn a new stage to showcase her talents.
Her commitment to excelling both in the classroom and on the court proves her dedication to building a well-rounded future.
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