The Ohio State men’s basketball team recently concluded its 2024-2025 season by opting out of postseason play, a decision that has sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts alike. After a 17-15 record and a first-round exit in the Big Ten Tournament, the Buckeyes were left out of the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year.
Subsequently, they declined an invitation to the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament, effectively ending their season.
The College Basketball Crown, introduced this year, is a 16-team event held in Las Vegas from March 31 to April 6. Teams from the Big East, Big Ten, and Big 12 that did not make the NCAA Tournament were contractually obligated to participate in this tournament if invited, or forgo postseason play entirely. Ohio State, along with other Big Ten teams like Indiana, Northwestern, and Rutgers, chose to decline participation.
This decision has raised questions about the direction of the program under head coach Jake Diebler. In his first season at the helm, Diebler faced challenges, particularly during a critical stretch midway through the second half of the season, where the Buckeyes struggled offensively, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities.
The Buckeyes’ season was marked by inconsistency. After a promising 8-4 start in non-conference play, they faltered in Big Ten competition, finishing with a 9-11 record. Their performance in Quad 1 games—a key metric for NCAA Tournament selection—was insufficient to earn an at-large bid, leading to their exclusion from March Madness.
Declining the College Basketball Crown invitation was a strategic move. Participating in a secondary tournament might not have aligned with the program’s goals or the players’ aspirations. Additionally, it allows the team to focus on the upcoming offseason, addressing roster needs and preparing for the next campaign.
The decision also reflects a broader trend among major programs. Several teams, including Indiana and West Virginia, also declined postseason invitations after missing the NCAA Tournament. This suggests a shift in how programs perceive secondary tournaments, perhaps viewing them as less beneficial for long-term success.
For Ohio State, the focus now shifts to retaining key players and recruiting. The transfer portal opens on March 24, providing an opportunity to bolster the roster. Maintaining core talent like Bruce Thornton, Devin Royal, and John Mobley Jr. will be crucial for a rebound next season.
In conclusion, while the decision to skip postseason play may disappoint some fans, it underscores a commitment to rebuilding and returning to the NCAA Tournament. The upcoming offseason will be pivotal as the Buckeyes aim to reestablish themselves as a competitive force in college basketball.
