There was some uncertainty about how the Ohio State basketball team would perform against Indiana State fresh off their dominant win over No. 4 Kentucky. It was the first home game since the win, the first game back from Christmas break, and without two key players in Micah Parrish and Meechie Johnson.
It turned out to be not much of a worry as the Buckeyes went on to beat Indiana State 103-83. In this game, they showcased their depth and balance throughout the roster.
Bruce Thornton was awesome again in this one with 33 points, his second 30-point outing in as many games, and he was extremely efficient shooting the ball connecting on 11 of his 16 field goals. But behind Thornton were two guys off the bench: Ques Glover (15 points, 6-9 FG, 5 assists) and Aaron Bradshaw (13 points, 4-7 FG).
Glover and Bradshaw also gave the Ohio State basketball team some massive minutes off the bench in the dismantling of Kentucky. Bradshaw put in 11 points and Ques Glover chipped in 9 points in that game.
These two returning for Jake Diebler gives the Buckeyes some depth in both the backcourt and the frontcourt. Bradshaw adds some size and length to the big guys down low which has really been needed, while Glover gives the backcourt more experience, shot making, and speed.
Diebler said in his postgame press conference he’s been really impressed with the play from Ques Glover:
"He’s established himself that he’s a proven scorer, and I think what doesn’t get talked about enough is his ability to impact the ball defensively. He can pressure some defensively… What a Vet to come out after being out as long as he was and perform the way he has. I think it speaks to his maturity and his poise."Jake Diebler, OSU Basketball Coach
Diebler also pointed out postgame how much of a threat Aaron Bradshaw is and how he helps the depth in the frontcourt:
"He provides some rim protection for us, and he does provide a lob threat. He’s shooting the ball with confidence from three… We’ve been hindered in some of these games in our frontcourt when we get in foul trouble, or we get fatigued when he was out. What’s been really important that he’s brought on a daily basis is he’s bringing great energy and he’s playing with a lot of passion. All of that stuff comes into play."Jake Diebler, OSU Basketball Coach
Getting these two back in the rotation has shown how deep this Ohio State basketball team can be when fully healthy. They have experience at each position and can score from every area on the floor.
This game against Indiana State was the Ohio State basketball team’s last non-conference play before conference play starts back up. January is an important month for Jake Diebler as it was a cursed month under Holtmann.
It’s important to have this depth and balance in a conference that is wide open. If the Buckeyes want to be a contender, they need to make a statement Friday night in Value City Arena when they take on Michigan State.