The 2025–26 Buckeyes are being built around an elite trio of returning guards and reinforced with post production from the transfer portal. Second-year Head Coach Jake Diebler now has a complete, tournament-ready roster with both star power and depth.

Backcourt Dominance Returns

• Bruce Thornton (17.7 PPG): The emotional leader and playmaking engine.

• John Mobley Jr. (13.0 PPG): A cold-blooded scorer and one of the most electric sophomore guards in the country.

• Devin Royal (13.7 PPG): A physical mismatch at forward with the ability to stretch the floor.

• Taison Chatman: Once a top-40 recruit, now fully healthy.

• Colin White, Kalen Etzler, Ivan Njegovan: Return as depth and system fits.

Transfer Portal: Frontcourt Firepower

• Brandon Noel (19.0 PPG – Wright State): A powerful forward with production and polish.

• Christoph Tilly (12.5 PPG – Santa Clara): A mobile 7-footer with pick-and-pop range.

• Josh Ojianwuna (Baylor): Elite defender, rebounder, and rim protector.

• Gabe Cupps (Indiana): Intelligent floor general and future leader.

Freshmen Ready to Contribute

• A’mare Bynum (4⭐️): Versatile forward with energy and upside.

• Myles Herro (3⭐️): Smooth scorer, son of NBA guard Tyler Herro, known for court vision and composure.

Final Word: Big Ten Contender Status?

With Thornton, Mobley, and Royal locked in — and Noel, Tilly, and Ojianwuna solidifying the front line — this is Ohio State’s most balanced and explosive team in years.

Expect them to challenge for a top-4 Big Ten finish and be a dark horse for March Madness noise.