The transfer portal might not officially open until April 7, but the college basketball landscape is already buzzing with activity. Players are on the move, coaches are making calls, and yes, even visits to other schools are happening ahead of time.
Ohio State, after their tough first-round NCAA Tournament exit against TCU, finds themselves in a familiar situation. As of now, none of the Buckeyes have announced plans to transfer, but the reality of college basketball today suggests that keeping the entire roster intact is a long shot.
Players have various reasons for entering the portal-whether it’s the pursuit of more playing time, better NIL opportunities, or simply a desire to be closer to home. With 11 of Ohio State’s 16 players eligible to return, including key contributors like John Mobley Jr., Devin Royal, and Amare Bynum, head coach Jake Diebler faces a challenging offseason.
Mobley and Royal were among the top scorers, while Royal and Bynum led in rebounds. Mobley and Taison Chatman also stood out as the team's best three-point shooters. Retaining all of these talents would be ideal, but realistically, it may not happen without offering each player a significant role.
So, who should Diebler prioritize? That’s the big question this week.
Connor argues for John Mobley Jr. With Bruce Thornton graduating, Mobley has the potential to be Ohio State’s top scorer next season.
His freedom in Diebler’s offense and his knack for hitting big shots make him invaluable. Last season, Mobley ranked fourth in the Big Ten for three-pointers made and seventh in three-point percentage among players with over 100 attempts.
His presence on the court draws defenders, creating opportunities for teammates and transforming the Buckeyes’ offense.
Mobley’s connection to Ohio State and his dynamic playstyle make him a critical piece that Diebler would struggle to replace through the portal.
On the other hand, Justin believes Amare Bynum should be the top priority. While Mobley’s return is important, Bynum’s potential impact is immense.
Averaging 9.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game with a shooting percentage over 50%, Bynum’s energy and improvement throughout the season were noteworthy. His fit alongside incoming five-star Anthony Thompson makes him an essential component of the Buckeyes’ future.
Bynum’s under-the-radar freshman year, overshadowed by an exceptional rookie class, allowed him to develop without the pressure of draft hype. His growth and versatility make him a key player for Ohio State moving forward.
In the end, whether it’s Mobley’s shooting prowess or Bynum’s all-around game, Diebler has some crucial decisions to make as he navigates the challenges of the transfer portal era.