Ohio State basketball: Malaki Branham’s decision could make or break Buckeyes for next season

Malaki Branham’s decision to stay at Ohio State or turn pro could determine the future of the Ohio State basketball program.

With the conclusion of the Ohio State basketball season, a big decision is looming over the program. The decision for freshman Malaki Branham to return to Ohio State or be a one-and-done could make or break the Buckeyes season next year.

The Buckeye basketball program could be in trouble within the next few weeks due to NBA departures. I don’t think there’s any chance E.J. Liddell comes back for his senior season as he already had his “Senior Day”. Now, there is also a chance that Malaki Branham takes that step and enters his name to be a part of the NBA Draft process.

Branham had a really strong finish to his freshman season at Ohio State. It was so good that Buckeye fans loved seeing his growth, but also hated that his name was starting to appear on NBA Draft Boards and rising rapidly.

I think it would be beneficial for Branham to come back for his sophomore season. It all comes down to if he wants to improve on his legacy at Ohio State. He would be a top 5 player in the Big Ten and in the country next season. If he comes back for his sophomore season, he has the potential to turn into a top 5 draft pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Branham would thrive as the focal point of the offense on this Buckeyes team. It would be a treat to watch if he comes back for another year.

There is already some hype for the Buckeyes leading up to next season with the loaded recruiting class Holtmann put together. It would be huge if he is able to keep Branham in the lineup with the recruits coming in. I think they can be a team that competes for a Big Ten title and at least make the Sweet 16 if Branham returns.

Next season Holtmann has to get the Buckeyes to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament. Another year with Malaki Branham, a healthy Justice Sueing and Seth Towns in the lineup, and a loaded recruiting class, I think a Sweet 16 appearance is the floor for this Buckeyes team with the ceiling being a Final Four. If Branham goes pro it’s hard to tell how the Buckeyes will do next year.

This could’ve been the only season we got to see Malaki Branham in a Buckeyes uniform. It’s only a matter of time until he makes that announcement about his future plans.