The Ohio State basketball team kicked off the 2024-25 season in an exciting way, defeating #19 Texas 80-72 last Monday. They will look to keep things rolling as they host in-state foe Youngstown State. Tip-off is set for 6:00 pm EST with coverage on BTN.

Youngstown State Penguins:

The Penguins are also 1-0 after defeating Chicago State in their opener on Saturday. Their first scheduled game against DII Westminster (PA) was postponed. Under head coach Jerrod Calhoun, the Penguins were a very respectable 22-10 last season, finishing 2nd in the Horizon League. 

Projected Lineup:

Gabe Dynes – C, #45

Nico Gallette – G, #44

Jason Nelson – G, #0

EJ Farmer – G, #3

Ty Harper – G, #1

This Penguins team will essentially be resetting the roster and looking for new scorers. First year head coach Ethan Faulkner, will be tasked with replacing the team’s top 5 scorers from last season.

Senior Guard Nico Gallette, a transfer from Sacred Heart, led the team in scoring with 20 points in their opener. While the second leading with 14 points was Juwan Maxey off the bench. Seven-footer Gabe Dynes also added 11 points to go along with his seven blocked shots.

Although the Penguins find themselves as a severe underdog, this early test will only help to strength Faulkner’s group.

Ohio State Buckeyes:

The 1-0 Buckeyes have fans quite excited after a wire to wire defeat of Texas in Las Vegas. They are heavy favorites against the Penguins, so Diebler should be able to try different lineups, an important piece leading to long term success with such a new roster.

Projected Starters:

Sean Stewart – F, #13

Aaron Bradshaw – C, #4

Micah Parrish – F, #8

Bruce Thornton – G, #2

Meechie Johnson – G, #1

Bruce Thornton showed why he is one of the best guards in the country, leading the team with 20 points. He also had five rebounds and five assists with just two turnovers. San Diego State transfer Micah Parrish had a nice opener as well with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Devin Royal also provided 16 points off the bench, as his potential continues to rise. Last but not least, Juni Mobley, notoriously nicknamed Sniper, hit 4 of 4 3-pt attempts to provide 14 points off the bench.

This Buckeye group showed off their pace, defensive tenacity and raw talent. It should be an exciting season, especially if the front court can exceed expectations and develop on the fly.

Prediction:

Ohio State is favored by 19.5 in this non-conference matchup. Unless the Buckeyes get caught looking ahead to Texas A&M this shouldn’t be much of a challenge. I like the Buckeyes to handle business.

Score: Ohio State 92, YSU 70

Featured image: FOX Sports