Although Ohio State’s men’s basketball team didn’t achieve great success in the previous season, the program still carries significant prestige and appeal. The Buckeyes remain a respected name in the world of college basketball—a team with a strong tradition, passionate fan base, and a history of producing top-tier talent. Because of that foundation, both players and coaches continue to see value in being associated with Ohio State. There’s a certain level of credibility and opportunity that comes with wearing a Buckeyes jersey or being part of the coaching staff, even when the team is in a rebuilding phase.
Looking ahead, Ohio State seems determined to bounce back with a vengeance. The coaching staff, led by head coach Jake Diebler, has its sights set on assembling a competitive squad by bringing in key transfer players and building a cohesive, high-performing unit on the court. Despite the challenges of competing in the always-grueling Big Ten Conference—a league known for its physical play and deep talent pool—the Buckeyes are showing signs of potential and determination. They’re retooling their roster and coaching staff in a way that suggests they want to contend, not just participate.
At the heart of this rebuilding effort is Jake Diebler, who now takes full control of the program after previously serving in a support capacity. With a fresh vision and a desire to restore the program’s winning tradition, Diebler is focusing on both recruiting and player development. Fortunately, he’ll have a strong foundation to build upon, particularly with the return of two key backcourt players—John Mobley Jr. and Bruce Thornton. Both athletes bring energy, skill, and leadership to the team, and their continued growth will be vital for Ohio State’s aspirations. Thornton, in particular, has already shown flashes of becoming a cornerstone player, and his development alongside Mobley could form one of the more dynamic backcourt duos in the Big Ten.
The Buckeyes aren’t stopping there. They’ve also made moves in the transfer portal, securing commitments from players like Gabe Cupps. Cupps, a former Indiana guard, is expected to bring both depth and versatility to the lineup. His basketball IQ and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a valuable addition. With these pieces in place, Ohio State is assembling a roster that could exceed expectations and become a legitimate threat in the conference.
Beyond the roster moves, Diebler has been proactive in enhancing the program’s coaching and support staff. A critical recent hire is Brian Walsh, who joins the Buckeyes after spending the last eight seasons on the Indiana Hoosiers’ coaching staff. Walsh brings a wealth of experience, including his time under head coach Mike Woodson at Indiana and a previous stint at Dayton. Known for his recruiting abilities, especially in the Midwest region, Walsh has earned a reputation for identifying talent and building strong relationships with players. His experience within the Big Ten also provides Ohio State with an insider’s understanding of its conference rivals, which could be crucial when it comes to game planning and scouting.
The addition of Walsh was first reported by college basketball insider John Rothstein, and the move has been well-received within the basketball community. Diebler spoke highly of the new hire, emphasizing Walsh’s skill in recruiting, his analytical mindset, and his ability to connect with athletes. According to a statement released by Diebler through Indiana Hoosiers on SI’s Todd Golden, the coach praised Walsh’s extensive network and his history of helping players grow and succeed. That sort of expertise is exactly what the Buckeyes need as they aim to re-establish themselves as a top-tier team.
Walsh won’t be working alone. He’ll be joining a seasoned group of assistant coaches and staff members, including Jamall Walker, Dave Dickerson, and Luke Simons. Each of these coaches brings something unique to the table, from recruiting insight to tactical knowledge. Joel Justus serves as the associate head coach, bringing additional leadership and experience. The program also includes a recruiting coordinator and a director of basketball operations, rounding out a comprehensive and professional support system designed to maximize player performance and team success.
The expectations placed on Walsh and the rest of the staff are high. With a team full of potential and a coaching staff committed to excellence, the Buckeyes have positioned themselves to be one of the more intriguing teams heading into the new season. There’s a sense of optimism surrounding the program—a belief that, with the right mix of leadership and talent, Ohio State could turn some heads in the national rankings. Many analysts believe the Buckeyes are capable of breaking into the top 25 early in the season if they can come out strong against quality opponents.
Ultimately, this season represents a fresh start and a new chapter for Ohio State basketball. While recent history hasn’t been as successful as the program might have hoped, the current direction under Jake Diebler offers reason for hope. With returning stars, talented newcomers, and a revamped coaching staff that includes proven leaders like Brian Walsh, the Buckeyes are aiming to be more than just competitive—they’re looking to become a contender once again.
This journey won’t be easy, especially in a conference as competitive as the Big Ten, but the pieces are in place for Ohio State to make real progress. Fans should be excited about the future, and opposing teams should take notice: the Buckeyes are building something strong, and they plan to make their presence felt on the court once again.
