On Senior Night in Columbus, Ohio, Buckeye guard and four-year starter Bruce Thornton made Ohio State history. While it was expected that Thornton would set the all-time scoring record at Ohio State in their game against Indiana, it didn't take away from the magic of the milestone. Thornton scored 25 points for the Buckeyes in their 91-78 win over the Hoosiers. His 25 points put his career total at 2,110.
Bruce Thornton passed another Buckeye legend, Dennis Hopson, for the scoring record. Hopson was in attendance to witness his 39-year old record be surpassed. Hopson was there with 18,808 other Buckeye fans who sold out the Schottenstein Center and packed it to see Ohio State history made.
Here's the immortal moment that gave #2 the record.
He’s done it.
— Ohio State Hoops (@OhioStateHoops) March 7, 2026
The new all-time leading scorer in Ohio State men’s basketball history is Bruce Thornton!pic.twitter.com/iafoNDC2bf
As thrilled as Buckeye Nation and Bruce Thornton are to see him get this record, Ohio State's leading scorer is just as excited for the win. When asked which was more important to him, Thornton answered he was going to have his cake and eat it too: "Both? I think I just got both in one night." This victory over Indiana likely puts Ohio State in the NCAA Tournament, regardless of how the Big Ten Tournament shakes out this coming week.
Bruce Thornton is a throwback, old-school, selfless player. In the day of NIL money and the transfer portal, Thornton has shown an uncommon loyalty. He's stayed at a program in turmoil and endured a head coaching change when many others would have left.
He's the only Buckeye to have been on the team each of the past four seasons. Thornton's dedication has shown uncommon character and selflessness, but so has his play. Thornton leads Ohio State in scoring, but is also fourth all-time in assists with 521. He'll likely move into the top three over the next couple of weeks, too.
#2 is Ohio State basketball. He's as scarlet and gray as they come. It's only fitting that, despite their struggles, this team never quit; they rallied around their senior leader and played their way into the NCAA Tournament. Operation Get Bruce to March Madness has been a success. The sellout crowd for this game proves that Buckeye Nation recognizes and appreciates this great young man and all he's done for Ohio State basketball.