The Ohio State men’s basketball team has entered the 2024-25 season amid notable changes and fresh ambitions. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Jake Diebler, the program has focused on rebuilding its roster, looking to enhance both experience and talent. The prior season ended with a disappointing first-round exit from the Big Ten Tournament, losing to Iowa and finishing with a 17-15 record. The Buckeyes opted out of participating in the inaugural College Basketball Crown postseason tournament to concentrate on retooling their lineup.
Diebler’s strategy has shifted to prioritize seasoned players over promising high-school recruits. He successfully retained key contributors, including starters Bruce Thornton, Devin Royal, and John Mobley Jr., setting the stage for a more robust roster consisting of 14 players that boast increased size and overall game intelligence.
Entering the new season, Ohio State has garnered attention, receiving votes towards the top 25 in national polls but not yet achieving ranked status. As projected by ESPN, the Buckeyes are currently slotted as a No. 7 seed for what could be their first NCAA Tournament appearance since the 2021-22 season.
Ohio State’s season kicks off with a home game against IU Indy on November 3. The Buckeyes will look to leverage their trusted offensive players like Thornton, the leading scorer for the last two years, who could potentially surpass Dennis Hopson’s long-standing career scoring record. Royal is expected to shift positions for added size, while Mobley is anticipated to make a significant impact in his sophomore year. New additions like Santa Clara transfer Christoph Tilly and Wright State transfer Brandon Noel will provide depth and experience.
Defensively, questions linger as the Buckeyes look to improve upon their previous season’s adjusted ratings. They must enhance perimeter defense and collective effort to ensure consistent stops throughout games. Third-year guard Gabe Cupps and newcomer Amare Bynum are key to bolstering the team’s defensive strategies.
The Buckeyes’ strategy for success this season hinges on improved game execution. Last year, they faced challenges, ranking low in assist rates, fouls, and rebounding statistics. Addressing these statistics is crucial if Ohio State aims to succeed in a competitive Big Ten conference.
Overall, signs point to an enhanced team for the 2024-25 season, emphasizing basketball IQ and cohesive gameplay. Diebler and his contingent will not only strive for a place in March Madness but also aim to restore pride and competitiveness to the Buckeye program. With a mix of experience and promising talent, Ohio State’s basketball future looks optimistic as they head into this pivotal season.