Eric Boggs
Ohio State and Cincinnati are teaming up for a special cause this preseason. The Buckeyes and Bearcats will face off in the OSU vs. UC CareSource Exhibition Game for Mental Health on October 18 at Cincinnati’s Fifth Third Arena. This game, which will take place during UC’s Homecoming weekend, is more than just a preseason tune-up; it’s a powerful effort to raise awareness for mental health, with all proceeds benefiting mental health providers and charities in Ohio.
This event holds special significance for both schools, as the proceeds will also support Jay’s Light, a foundation started by Dayton basketball coach Anthony Grant in honor of his daughter, Jay, who tragically passed away in 2022 due to mental illness. The mission of Jay’s Light is to help families, teens, and young adults access vital mental health resources.
“We’re excited to partner with Cincinnati and CareSource for such a tremendous cause,” Ohio State assistant coach Jake Diebler said. “Mental health and overall wellness have long been priorities for our athletic department, and we’re blessed to have incredible resources here at Ohio State. Joining Coach Grant and Coach Miller in this effort is important as we continue to work toward having a real impact in our communities.”
The exhibition will be Ohio State’s final test before the regular season begins on November 4 in Las Vegas against Texas, giving fans a chance to see the Buckeyes’ revamped roster in action. The Bearcats, coming off a 22-15 season, will also be looking to fine-tune their lineup.
Cincinnati head coach Wes Miller echoed the sentiment of unity for mental health. “We are thrilled to participate in this exhibition with Ohio State and raise awareness for mental health initiatives. This game will be a great showcase for Fifth Third Arena and a preview of what’s in store for our 2024-25 team.”
Two days after the Ohio State-Cincinnati matchup, Dayton and Xavier will meet for their own charity exhibition game at UD Arena on October 20. Both games aim to promote mental health resources across Ohio, with net proceeds benefiting charities within each school’s community footprint.
As a rivalry with a rich history—including Cincinnati defeating Ohio State in the 1961 and 1962 national championship games—this matchup between the Buckeyes and Bearcats adds a deeper purpose beyond basketball. With mental health in the spotlight, Ohio State fans have another reason to rally behind their team as they look to make a difference both on and off the court.
