Ohio State’s Quest for NCAA Tournament Glory
Will Ohio State break their three-year NCAA men’s basketball tournament drought in 2025? Under the guidance of first-year head coach Jake Diebler, the Buckeyes (17-14, 9-11 Big Ten) have had a season marked by both highs and lows, making them one of the most intriguing bubble teams as conference tournament week approaches. Diebler, known for his sharpshooters and intricate offensive schemes, has the challenging task of leading this team into the Big Dance. Despite the team’s inconsistencies, Ohio State boasts a lineup with four players averaging double digits, led by Bruce Thornton. However, their performance in Big Ten play has been a mixed bag, with a dramatic 116-114 victory against Nebraska on Tuesday followed by a 66-60 loss to Indiana on Saturday. As the Big Ten tournament kicks off from Wednesday to Sunday at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, the pressure is mounting.
Ohio State’s Big Ten Tournament Outlook
Ohio State is projected to be the No. 10 seed in the Big Ten tournament, a position that offers both opportunity and risk. The Buckeyes were eliminated in the quarterfinal round during Diebler’s interim coaching stint last year, a memory that adds extra urgency to their performance this time around. The tournament is crucial for Ohio State’s NCAA Tournament hopes, and a strong showing could make all the difference. The team’s KenPom ranking of No. 34 and NET ranking of No. 36 are strong indicators, especially among bubble teams. These rankings, combined with notable victories over Texas and Kentucky, provide a solid foundation for their NCAA Tournament push. The win over Texas, a fellow bubble team, and the 85-65 victory against Kentucky in December are key highlights in their non-conference schedule. Additionally, their best Big Ten victory, a 73-70 upset against Purdue on January 29, has added weight to their resume.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Despite their solid rankings and key victories, Ohio State has its fair share of weak spots. The Buckeyes have a 3-3 record against Quad 2 opponents, a category that includes their 70-49 loss to Northwestern on February 20. This loss, part of a three-game losing streak that also included losses to Michigan and UCLA, has raised concerns about their consistency. Ohio State’s 2-5 record against ranked Big Ten teams in the regular season is another area that might not fare well with the selection committee. However, their 6-10 record against Quad 1 opponents is one of the better marks among bubble teams, which could tip the scales in their favor.
Projected Outcomes
As the Big Ten tournament approaches, Ohio State is a popular First Four team, according to several bracket projections. Sporting News has the Buckeyes as one of its Last Four In, and ESPN’s Joe Lunardi’s latest bracketology also places Ohio State in the Last Four In category. However, CBS Sports’ Jerry Palm has the Buckeyes as one of the First Four Out. This discrepancy highlights the tight race for the final spots in the NCAA Tournament and the importance of Ohio State’s performance in the Big Ten tournament. An early exit could mean a trip to the NIT instead of the Big Dance, further emphasizing the pressure on Diebler and his team.
The Path to the NCAA Tournament
To secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament, Ohio State will need to win at least one game in the Big Ten tournament. A victory in the first round would not only boost their resume but also provide a much-needed confidence boost. The Buckeyes have shown flashes of brilliance this season, and a strong tournament run could be the catalyst they need to return to the national stage. Coach Diebler’s experience and the potential of players like Bruce Thornton could be the difference-makers in a tight tournament field.
Conclusion
Ohio State’s journey to the 2025 NCAA men’s basketball tournament is far from over. Under the leadership of Coach Jake Diebler, the Buckeyes have the potential to overcome their inconsistencies and make a strong case for a tournament bid. Their key victories and strong rankings provide a solid foundation, but their performance in the Big Ten tournament will ultimately determine their fate. As the conference tournament week begins, all eyes will be on Ohio State to see if they can break their three-year drought and return to the Big Dance.
