Former Ohio State basketball player shines for in-state program in massive upset

After transferring from the Ohio State basketball program after last season, Zed Key is killing it for in-state school Dayton.

Nov 26, 2024; Lahaina, Hawaii, USA; Dayton Flyers forward Zed Key (23) dunks over Iowa State Cyclones forward Joshua Jefferson (2) in the second half at Lahaina Civic Center. Mandatory Credit: Marco Garcia-Imagn Images
Nov 26, 2024; Lahaina, Hawaii, USA; Dayton Flyers forward Zed Key (23) dunks over Iowa State Cyclones forward Joshua Jefferson (2) in the second half at Lahaina Civic Center. Mandatory Credit: Marco Garcia-Imagn Images | Marco Garcia-Imagn Images

The transfer portal has been used by a lot of college basketball players over the last few years. In fact, some teams have up to 90% roster turnover because of the portal. The Ohio State basketball team had a large amount of roster turnover because of the transfer portal.

A big reason for that is because Chris Holtmann was fired midseason. That opened the door for a lot fo guys who he recruited to bolt for other programs. Jake Diebler wasn't able to hold onto a lot of guys, which may end up being fine. It's not like those guys showed they were great in the last couple of seasons.

One player who fans of the Ohio State Buckeyes loved is Zed Key. Key was a starter for multiple seasons with the Buckeyes. Last season, he was moved to the bench. Key probably didn't love that role, and that's why he transferred to Dayton. He is thriving with the Flyers.

Former Ohio State basketball player Zed Key kills it against a top-six team

Key and his Flyers took on the sixth-ranked Marquette Golden Eagles on Saturday evening. It was a home game for Dayton, and Key showed everyone how good of a player he is. He starts for the Flyers and he led the team in scoring in a 71-63 upset. It was hard to watch as an Ohio State fan.

Key was efficient. He was 6-8 from the field and had 15 points. He added three rebounds and two blocks to that statline. His presence inside was key for Dayton to win this game and complete one of the biggest upsets in program history. Buckeye fans would love if Key would have stayed.

The Ohio State basketball program could really use someone like him in the low post, especially after getting crushed by Auburn. Instead, they have to watch him thrive for a team that is just an hour to the West.

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