Eric Boggs
As Ohio State fans, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of football season, but let’s not forget that Buckeye basketball is gearing up for an important season under new head coach Jake Diebler. With the first official practice already in the books, the Buckeyes are setting the stage for what we hope will be a successful year on the hardwood.
Diebler has made it clear that he’s building something special here in Columbus. During his preseason media session, he talked about laying a “good foundation” and the need for toughness, urgency, and togetherness on the court. That’s the kind of Buckeye spirit we all want to see. He wants our former players and all of Buckeye Nation to be proud when they see this team play – a team that’s hungry and represents Ohio State with the intensity we’ve come to expect.
Health-wise, we’re in a pretty good spot, aside from the unfortunate loss of Taison Chatman to a torn ACL. It’s a tough break, but we’ve got the depth to handle it, and with the challenging schedule ahead, we’re going to need every bit of it. Our non-conference slate isn’t for the faint of heart, with five Power Conference matchups, including a massive season opener against Texas in Las Vegas on November 4.
Watching practice, it’s clear Diebler’s approach is all about pace and precision. The team was in constant motion, and Diebler’s energy was contagious. There’s a heavy focus on shooting, especially from beyond the arc, which could be a key part of our identity this season. The intensity in those drills was something to behold, and it’s clear Diebler isn’t just coaching from the sidelines – he’s right there in the mix, pushing our guys to get better every day.
Before we tip off the season against Texas, we’ve got a charity exhibition game against Cincinnati on October 18. And then, the real test begins. The Big Ten schedule, which now includes our new West Coast rivals, kicks off with a road game at Maryland on December 4, followed by our home opener against Rutgers on December 7. Mark that date, because it could be a HUGE day for Ohio State sports, with the football team potentially playing for a Big Ten title later that night.
The Big Ten season promises some exciting matchups, including a Friday night showdown against Michigan State on January 3, and home games against newcomers Oregon and Washington. We’ll also head out west to face UCLA and USC in late February, a new challenge for the Buckeyes.
The season wraps up with a home game against Nebraska on March 4 and a road trip to Indiana on March 8, before we head to Indianapolis for the Big Ten Tournament from March 12-16. As we gear up for this season, it’s time to get behind Diebler and the team, because this could be the start of something special in Buckeye basketball. Go Bucks!
