Eric Boggs
Jake Diebler’s passion for Ohio State basketball is unmistakable. Now officially at the helm as head coach, he’s not just filling a seat—he’s setting a tone. In a candid and comprehensive sit-down, Diebler shared his excitement for the direction of the program, confidence in the roster being assembled, and his unrelenting belief that the Buckeyes belong at the top of the Big Ten and among the nation’s elite.
As the transfer portal window closed, Diebler made it clear the foundation for next season begins with retention. Ohio State locked in key returners Bruce Thornton, Devin Royal, and John Mobley Jr., a trio the head coach believes will play a pivotal role in the team’s rise. In a college basketball landscape dominated by roster turnover, Diebler sees continuity as gold. “Retention proved to be extremely valuable across college basketball this past season,” he said. “We’ve got three guys who are proven Big Ten players committed to come back. That matters.”
Diebler acknowledged the Buckeyes aren’t done building just yet. With the portal closed, he’s narrowing in on specific fits—players who add skill, size, and basketball IQ to elevate the team’s versatility on both ends of the court. And while five players have moved on from the program, Diebler emphasized those conversations were rooted in honesty and an understanding of what it takes to win in Columbus. “This time of year, it’s program first,” he said. “You build deep relationships, but we’ve got to be brutally honest with ourselves about what we need to compete for a Big Ten championship.”
Already, three additions stand out: Gabe Cupps, Christoph Tilley, and Brandon Noel. Diebler praised their experience and skill, particularly in the frontcourt. “Being more skilled was important. Their experience should raise our collective basketball IQ, which allows you to be more creative and versatile.”
The 2024–25 Buckeyes aren’t finished products, but Diebler’s message is clear—this team is going to compete at a high level. “We’re not done yet. But I think we can get to great. I believe we’ve put together a roster that raises our level significantly.”
Reflecting on last season, Diebler didn’t shy away from the pain points. Nine one-possession losses, injuries, and roster turbulence tested his young coaching tenure. But the way his team fought through adversity and still found itself in position to make the NCAA Tournament showed him something: resilience. “We were in position to control our destiny. Didn’t finish the job, but that fight, that belief—it’s something we can build on.”
Off the court, Diebler is putting a major emphasis on improving the game-day atmosphere inside Value City Arena. Collaborating with new Athletic Director Ross Bjork, he hinted at exciting changes coming to energize fans and recreate the electricity from Buckeye basketball’s past. “We’ve got to do our part, but we need the students. The energy of this place can be impactful, and we’re working to get it back there.”
Asked about working with Bjork, Diebler praised his vision and partnership. “It’s been great. His investment in our program is real. With his support, we’re not looking to take a small step—we’re looking to make a leap.”
The head coach is well aware of the scrutiny that came with his promotion. Critics wanted more experience; Diebler brings something different—deep roots, relentless work ethic, and an unshakable belief in what Ohio State basketball can be. “No one in the country is working harder for their program than I’m working for this one,” he said.
He’s also committed to challenging schedules, maintaining that the Buckeyes will continue to play tough non-conference opponents and high-profile matchups. “We want all the smoke,” he said, smiling.
Navigating the current college basketball landscape—with its constant portal churn and the influence of NIL—has added complexity to the job. Diebler embraces it but makes it clear that playing for Ohio State should mean more than just a financial decision. “NIL plays a role, but so should wearing this jersey and representing something bigger than yourself. We want competitors who want to win.”
As for late portal decisions like Sean Stewart’s, Diebler handled it with grace and discretion. “There were ongoing conversations. The reasons are personal, and I’ll leave it at that.”
Jake Diebler may be a first-year head coach, but he’s not thinking small. He’s working to restore Ohio State basketball to where it belongs—competing for championships and generating real buzz in Columbus and beyond. “This program means everything to me and my family,” he said. “We’re doing everything we can every single day to get it back to the top. And we’re going to get there.”
