Beware the (Buck)Eyes of March
March is shaping up to be a thrilling month for Ohio State fans. The Buckeyes have already delivered some standout performances, and as we gear up for the intense action of basketball tournaments, wrestling showdowns, and more, let's take a moment to celebrate the highlights from the first half of the month.
Bruce Thornton’s Record-Breaking Performance
Senior Day at the Schottenstein Center turned into a historic event when Bruce Thornton surpassed Dennis Hopson’s record for career points at Ohio State. Thornton’s three-pointer in the first half of their 91-78 victory over Indiana etched his name in the record books. With 25 points in the game, he propelled the Buckeyes to a three-game winning streak to close out the regular season.
Thornton didn’t just stop there. Two days later, he was named Big Ten Player of the Week for the third time this season, adding to his accolades as a second team All-Big Ten selection. His leadership has Ohio State poised for their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2022, marking a fitting end to his college career.
Jaloni Cambridge: The Catalyst
Sophomore guard Jaloni Cambridge kicked off March by earning a spot on the Big Ten Weekly Honor Roll for the seventh time. After a strong showing in the Big Ten Tournament, where they reached the semifinals, the Buckeyes head into the NCAA Tournament with a formidable 26-7 record.
Cambridge, the engine of the team, is averaging 22.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. Named to the National Ballot for the Wooden Award and a Dawn Staley Award finalist, Cambridge is ready to make waves in the tournament.
Hailey MacLeod’s Impressive Run
Hailey MacLeod is making a name for herself as one of the top goaltenders in women’s college hockey. She started March with a shutout against Minnesota and followed it up with a stellar performance against Wisconsin, earning Ohio State the top seed in the NCAA Tournament. With a program-record 24 wins and a .889 win percentage, MacLeod is the goalie no team wants to face right now.
Wrestling Dominance: Ben Davino & Jesse Mendez
Ohio State wrestling is riding high after two of its stars clinched Big Ten titles. Jesse Mendez, now a two-time conference champion at 141 pounds, and redshirt freshman Ben Davino, who claimed his first title, are leading the charge.
Mendez was named Big Ten Wrestler of the Year, while Davino took home Freshman of the Year honors. With all 10 Ohio State wrestlers heading to the NCAA Championships, the team is poised for a strong showing.
Garrett Haas: Lacrosse Standout
Despite a tough loss to Notre Dame, Ohio State’s men’s lacrosse team bounced back with a win over Denver, thanks in part to Garrett Haas. Haas, who scored two goals in each game, now leads the team with 18 goals and 15 assists. As the Buckeyes prepare to face Rutgers, Haas continues to be a key player in their lineup.
Matt Patricia’s Impact
Matt Patricia’s contract extension with Ohio State was a major highlight, making him the highest-paid assistant coach in college football. After transitioning from the NFL, Patricia quickly silenced any doubts by leading the Buckeyes to the top defense in college football last season. With his sights set on a national title, Patricia’s influence on the team is undeniable.
As March progresses, Ohio State fans have plenty to cheer for across multiple sports. The Buckeyes are making their presence felt, and the excitement is only just beginning.