Ohio State basketball is buzzing with excitement, and it's not just because Bruce Thornton broke the all-time scoring record. Freshman forward Amare Bynum is bringing a contagious joy to the court, captivating Buckeye fans as the team heads into its first NCAA Tournament in four years. Bynum's potential to shine is undeniable, and he's poised to make a significant impact against No. 9 seed TCU in the opening round.
Coach Jake Diebler is full of praise for Bynum, drawing parallels to a young Bruce Thornton, but emphasizing that Bynum is carving out his own path. “I love coaching him,” Diebler shared.
“His approach and joy remind me of Bruce when he was a freshman. We’re seeing growth almost by the week.”
Bynum's journey mirrors that of other Ohio State freshmen who have stepped up early. Following in the footsteps of John Mobley Jr., Bynum claimed a starting spot by the 11th game of the season. His breakout performances include a 20-point game against Washington, showcasing his athleticism and newfound three-point prowess.
After a brief slump, Bynum found his rhythm, becoming a consistent threat both inside and beyond the arc. Shooting 46.4% from downtown in the last nine games, his confidence is soaring. “Being more poised, taking open shots and having confidence,” Bynum said, highlighting his growth and the trust his teammates have in him.
Bynum's stats tell the story of a player on the rise: 9.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 50.2% from the field. During a crucial four-game winning streak, he elevated his game, averaging 12.7 points and six rebounds, while his defensive skills continued to improve.
One of Bynum’s standout moments came on Senior Night against Indiana, where he delivered an 18-point, nine-rebound performance, helping secure Ohio State’s tournament bid. His ability to energize the team with big plays and celebrations is a testament to his infectious enthusiasm.
Despite a tough outing against Michigan's formidable defense in the Big Ten Tournament, Diebler remains confident in Bynum's ability to bounce back. “Stay aggressive,” Diebler urged. “He's earned everything this year and has the ability to impact winning.”
Looking ahead to the matchup with TCU, Bynum is ready to take on a physical frontcourt. With no TCU player towering over 6-foot-8, Bynum's height and skills could be pivotal.
He's eager for his first taste of March Madness, saying, “It's amazing. We're going to make a big run.”
As Bynum continues to develop, there's talk of his pro potential. Diebler believes in his star freshman's future, noting, “He's got an ability to be a huge impact player next year. The sky's the limit for him.”
For now, Bynum is focused on enjoying the game and helping Ohio State succeed. The Buckeyes face off against TCU at 12:15 p.m. Thursday on CBS, and fans are ready to see Bynum bring his joy to the national stage.