Don’t let the number fool you — No. 23 might as well be a warning label. Ohio State may be tucked near the bottom of ESPN’s Way-Too-Early Top 25, but beneath that seemingly modest ranking lies a team that could detonate next season’s college basketball hierarchy.
After a late-season collapse that saw the Buckeyes fall just short of March Madness glory, many assumed the program would spiral into another rebuilding year. But here’s the plot twist: Columbus is quietly assembling a squad that looks more like a loaded arsenal than a mere college basketball team — and the rest of the nation might not be ready.
The Core Returns, Hungrier Than Ever
Ohio State was one of the youngest squads in the country last season, starting just one senior. That youth, once a liability, is now a lethal weapon. Bruce Thornton, the Buckeyes’ floor general and heart of the team, returns after averaging 17.7 points per game and flashing serious All-American potential. His court vision, leadership, and fearless play in big moments make him one of the top returning point guards in the nation.
Alongside Thornton, John Mobley Jr. (13.0 PPG) and Devin Royal (13.7 PPG) are expected to explode in Year 2 — both brimming with untapped potential and hungry to prove they’re more than just talented prospects. These are no longer rising stars. They’re ascending monsters.
Christoph Tilly: The 7-Foot Wild Card from Europe
If there’s one move that could flip the entire Big Ten script, it’s the acquisition of Christoph Tilly, a 7-foot unicorn out of Germany by way of Santa Clara. Averaging 12.5 points per game in the WCC, Tilly brings a unique blend of European finesse, size, and stretch-the-floor capability. He’s not just a center — he’s a potential matchup nightmare for the entire conference. And if the transition is smooth? Watch out.
The X-Factor: Sean Stewart
Don’t sleep on Sean Stewart (5.7 PPG), the transfer with untapped versatility. With a motor that never quits and athleticism that can turn defense into instant offense, he could be the glue that holds the starting five together.
The Potential Starting Five:
- Bruce Thornton – 17.7 PPG, Cold-blooded closer
- John Mobley Jr. – 13.0 PPG, Sharpshooting assassin
- Devin Royal – 13.7 PPG, Two-way threat
- Sean Stewart – 5.7 PPG, Hustler and havoc-wreaker
- Christoph Tilly – 12.5 PPG (Santa Clara), Stretch 5 with attitude
Why No. 23 Might Be Way Too Low
The Buckeyes’ placement at 23 seems more like a cautious nod than a reflection of their ceiling. With a full offseason under new leadership and a maturing core, this team isn’t just aiming for a tournament berth — they want blood, banners, and a Final Four run. And don’t be surprised if they rip through the Big Ten like a buzzsaw.
The question isn’t if Ohio State will rise — it’s how high. Are they flying under the radar? Or is this the calm before a scarlet-and-gray storm?
