Eric Boggs
Jake Diebler’s vision for Ohio State basketball has started to take real shape, and Buckeye fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic heading into the 2025–26 season. Since Diebler last met with the media, the roster has nearly been finalized with the additions of transfers Gabe Cupps, Brandon Noel, Christoph Tilly, and Josh Ojianwuna, along with incoming freshmen A’mare Bynum, Mathieu Grujicic, and Myles Herro. One scholarship slot remains open, though the Buckeyes may already have the core they need to take a meaningful step forward.
Diebler addressed the media this week ahead of practice, offering insight into his second roster and reinforcing the program’s offseason mantra: “winning over everything.” The phrase isn’t just lip service—it’s a rallying cry born out of the disappointment of last season, now driving the team’s renewed focus. As an Ohio State fan, it’s refreshing to see such a clear cultural reset. This is not about hype or headlines; it’s about toughness, accountability, and doing the little things that translate into wins in the Big Ten.
The roster itself looks deeper and more versatile than what we saw last year. Noel and Tilly, though coming from mid-major programs, bring seasoned frontcourt skillsets that Diebler believes will translate well in the Big Ten, especially since they won’t be asked to carry the load the way they did at Wright State and Santa Clara. Surrounded by greater talent in Columbus, both players have a chance to make immediate but balanced contributions.
Diebler also addressed the status of Ojianwuna, who is still rehabbing from a season-ending knee injury. While there’s no firm timetable for his return, his presence and experience alone offer value to a group still coming together.
The Buckeyes were also fortunate to host a veterans camp earlier in the week that brought former Ohio State players—including several NBA Buckeyes—back to campus to work with the current team. That added leadership and perspective speaks volumes about the direction Diebler is taking the program. It’s not just about building a team; it’s about restoring a winning identity that Ohio State basketball fans have long been hungry to see again.
With Diebler’s leadership and a retooled roster built around cohesion and competitiveness, the 2025–26 season feels like a fresh beginning. The mantra is clear: no more excuses, no more distractions—just Buckeye basketball with a renewed purpose.
