The Ohio State men's basketball team showcased its readiness for Big Ten play with a commanding 88-61 victory over Central Michigan in a nonconference game at Value City Arena. The Buckeyes, led by sophomore guard Bruce Thornton's impressive 25-point performance, demonstrated their prowess on both ends of the court. As they gear up to open Big Ten play against Minnesota, Ohio State coach Chris Holtmann reflects on the team's performance, highlighting areas for improvement while acknowledging key players who stepped up in the game.
Bruce Thornton continued his stellar play, following up his MVP performance at the Emerald Coast Classic with a 25-point outing against Central Michigan. The sophomore guard displayed his scoring versatility, going 9 of 14 from the floor, 3 of 7 on threes, and a perfect 4 for 4 at the foul line. Coach Holtmann praised Thornton for not only his scoring but also his overall approach to the game, emphasizing his consistency as an everyday player.
Center Felix Okpara had a breakout game, contributing a career-high 14 points and nine rebounds, showcasing the team's depth. Holtmann acknowledged the improved chemistry among the players, particularly between Okpara and guards like Roddy Gayle, attributing Okpara's success to the guards' ability to read the game. The Buckeyes also saw contributions from Jamison Battle, Roddy Gayle, and freshman Devin Royal, who scored a career-high 11 points.
Ohio State dominated defensively, limiting Central Michigan to only 61 points and out-rebounding them 44-30. The Buckeyes' commitment to defense was evident in their 13-1 advantage in second-chance points. Coach Holtmann emphasized the importance of defensive details and praised his team's effort on the boards. The disciplined defensive performance, coupled with effective rebounding, played a crucial role in securing the victory.
Despite the convincing win, Coach Holtmann acknowledged that there were moments of clunkiness in the game, possibly due to experimenting with different lineups. He stressed the need for improvement, especially as they enter Big Ten play against Minnesota. The upcoming game against the Golden Gophers presents a significant challenge, and Holtmann expressed respect for their talent while emphasizing the importance of a strong showing in the conference opener.
The Ohio State men's basketball team's dominant victory over Central Michigan serves as a testament to their preparedness for the challenges of Big Ten play. With standout performances from key players like Bruce Thornton and Felix Okpara, coupled with a disciplined defensive effort, the Buckeyes are poised to make a strong push in the conference. As they enter a new phase of the season, the team remains focused on continuous improvement and looks forward to the upcoming Big Ten battle against Minnesota.
