Ohio State University’s men’s basketball team, under the leadership of head coach Jake Diebler, finds itself on the NCAA Tournament bubble as March Madness approaches. Diebler, who took over as interim head coach in February 2024 following Chris Holtmann’s departure, was officially named the 15th head coach of the Buckeyes on March 17, 2024.
In his first full season, Diebler has guided the team to a 17–13 overall record and a 9–10 mark in the competitive Big Ten Conference. This places Ohio State squarely on the NCAA Tournament bubble, with their postseason fate hanging in the balance.
Ohio State’s performance has been marked by resilience, particularly in avoiding damaging losses. The team has steered clear of Quad-3 and Quad-4 defeats, with their most challenging losses coming against teams like Indiana, Pitt, and Oregon—all of which are also vying for NCAA Tournament spots.
The Buckeyes’ recent victory over Iowa in the Big Ten Tournament’s second round has kept their NCAA Tournament hopes alive. However, with other bubble teams securing key wins, Ohio State’s path to securing an at-large bid has become more complicated.
Athletic Director Gene Smith has expressed confidence in Diebler’s leadership, acknowledging the challenges faced this season while emphasizing the progress made under his guidance. Smith highlighted Diebler’s deep ties to Ohio and his commitment to building a competitive program.
As Selection Sunday nears, Ohio State’s NCAA Tournament prospects remain uncertain. The team will likely need a strong showing in the Big Ten Tournament to bolster their resume and secure a coveted spot in the national tournament. Diebler’s ability to navigate these high-pressure moments will be crucial in determining the Buckeyes’ postseason fate.
