Eric Boggs
For the first time in school history, the Ohio State men’s basketball team will take the floor on a court that matches the school’s iconic colors—not in accents or trim, but as the main attraction. On Friday, the Buckeyes revealed a new scarlet-and-gray court design for Value City Arena, a bold visual shift that reflects the program’s fresh direction under head coach Jake Diebler.
Gone is the familiar hardwood hue that has long defined basketball tradition. In its place is a gray base color that gives the Schottenstein Center an entirely new atmosphere. Scarlet now commands the painted areas beneath each basket, as well as the sidelines and baselines. White Big Ten logos pop below each free-throw line, and a clean, crisp “OHIO STATE” in capital white letters is placed beneath both baselines—another subtle but meaningful touch.
Perhaps the most unique and innovative feature is the interchangeable midcourt logo system. For years, fans have grown accustomed to the state of Ohio outline featuring the university’s traditional athletic logo. Now, that’s been swapped out for two new rotating options: the bold Block “O” known from Ohio Stadium and a sleek script “Buckeyes” that pays homage to the school’s athletic heritage in a completely different style. It’s a modern twist that merges branding and flexibility in a way no other college program has done.
There’s no question that traditionalists—especially those who believe a basketball court should be the color of the wood grain—may raise an eyebrow. This isn’t your father’s Value City Arena floor. But from an Ohio State fan’s perspective, this is a moment to embrace change. The university has invested in a new look for a new era. And after a turbulent stretch for the program, Buckeye Nation is ready to see whether this visual shakeup can coincide with better results between the lines.
Coach Diebler enters year two with momentum and expectation. If the team’s play matches the court’s energy, there’s real potential for this transformation to be more than cosmetic. Come November, when the scarlet and gray light up under the arena’s spotlight, we’ll all be watching closely. And if the wins follow? Even the skeptics may come around.
