Since taking the head coaching job of the Ohio State basketball program, Jake Diebler has received a lot of criticism. Some of it has been fair, while some of it hasn't. He has learned a lot in the first three years as the head coach of the Buckeyes, and he made his first NCAA Tournament last year.
His teams have gotten better every year, and Diebler has shown he can be an excellent recruiter, as well. Bruce Thornton became the first player that he's coached to be drafted into the NBA. Things are looking up as he continues to learn. However, there's one thing he never needed to learn.
That is his affinity for bringing back alumni to be around the team. Diebler understands how important it is to have successful guys around the current roster. Now, he has brought back all-time legend Thad Matta in what is his best move with the alumni yet.
Jake Diebler brings Thad Matta back to the Ohio State basketball program
Matta is the winningest coach in Ohio State basketball history. He took the Ohio State Buckeyes to two Final Fours and a National Championship Game appearance. Since he was let go, the Buckeyes have not consistently been able to make the NCAA Tournament.
Matta decided to retire from coaching after last season. Now, he's back in Columbus with a lot of alumni to help the current roster. His being back around the program just feels right, and Diebler deserves a lot of credit for welcoming him back with open arms.
Of course, Matta is not coaching for the Buckeyes. It's pretty clear his best coaching days have passed him by. Still, having him give some of these current players advice can't be a bad thing. He's the greatest coach in program history, and it's good to see him back.
The Ohio State basketball team could have a real shot to do damage in the Big Ten
With two five-star freshmen on the team this season, Ohio State has a real shot to win a lot of games in the Big Ten. It wouldn't be shocking to see them finish in the top four of the Big Ten standings when the season ends. The absolute minimum expectation is for the Buckeyes to make the NCAA Tournament.
The next step for Diebler and his team is to actually win some tournament games. While they have more talent on the wing, the frontcourt talent is concerning. Figuring out the power forward and center positions will be key for them in order to win games in March.
Fans were frustrated by the hiring of Diebler. Dusty May was a real possibility and probably would have been a great hire. However, he has already left for the NBA. The Buckeyes likely wouldn't have kept him long. Diebler has earned some love from the fans over the last couple of years.
The 2026-27 season will be an exciting one for the Buckeyes. It could be one that produces some really exciting moments.
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