Amare Bynum Steps Into Starting Role as Ohio State Prepares for North Carolina Test
It was only a matter of time before Amare Bynum’s name was called with the starting five. The freshman forward, a top-75 recruit in the 2025 class, has steadily earned his stripes through the first third of the season-and now, 11 games in, he's officially a starter for the Buckeyes.
Bynum made his first career start in a marquee matchup against North Carolina at the CBS Sports Classic in Atlanta, a decision that came on the heels of his breakout performance last weekend. In a double-overtime win over West Virginia, Bynum delivered a career-high 17 points, nine rebounds, three assists, one steal, and three blocks-all in 38 gritty, high-impact minutes.
That kind of two-way production doesn’t just happen by accident. It’s the kind of game that forces a coaching staff to take notice-and adjust accordingly.
A Freshman Playing Like a Vet
Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler has been measured in how he’s brought Bynum along, but the trust is clearly there. Diebler didn’t mince words when discussing Bynum’s role heading into the North Carolina game.
“He’s definitely going to keep playing a lot,” Diebler said. “Minutes matter more than starting. But we’re looking at how we can be better in the first half, and lineup analytics are part of that.”
Translation: Bynum’s energy, physicality, and relentless motor are too valuable to leave on the bench when the game tips off. And with Ohio State struggling to find early rhythm in three of its last four games-two of which ended in losses-Diebler is clearly looking for a spark from the jump.
Putting the Best Five on the Floor
Starting Bynum isn’t just about rewarding a hot hand. It’s about putting the Buckeyes’ best five on the floor from the opening whistle.
Without him in the lineup, Ohio State has risked falling behind early and then scrambling to catch up. That's a tough way to live, especially against high-caliber opponents like North Carolina.
Through 10 games, Bynum has averaged 8.4 points and 4.4 rebounds while shooting an efficient 54.1% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. His 9.2% offensive rebounding rate and 3.1% block rate both lead the team-numbers that speak to his impact on both ends of the floor, even in limited minutes.
To put it in context, senior forward Brandon Noel-whom Bynum replaced in the starting lineup-has averaged nearly identical numbers: 8.4 points and 4.7 boards in 22.4 minutes per game, shooting 67.9% from the field but just 25% from deep. Noel’s high-water mark came in a 29-point explosion against Northwestern earlier this month, but Bynum’s consistency and defensive presence have given the Buckeyes something they need more of: reliable, high-motor minutes from the opening tip.
Earning the Trust, Earning the Role
Diebler has been intentional about not overloading his freshman early, but Bynum has forced the issue with his play. And more importantly, with the way he works.
“I think he’s earned everything he’s gotten,” Diebler said. “There have been games where you just feel his activity.
He impacts winning. And when that’s the case, you can’t take him off the floor unless he’s tired.”
That’s high praise for any player-let alone a freshman. But it’s not just about the box score.
It’s the way Bynum approaches each game, each practice, each opportunity. Diebler compared Bynum’s mindset to that of Bruce Thornton, now a senior and the first four-time captain in Ohio State history.
“I see a lot of similarities in how he approaches the game every single day,” Diebler said, referencing Thornton’s own freshman year. “He shows up every day, and all he cares about is getting better and helping Ohio State win.”
That kind of mentality is rare in a freshman. It’s even rarer when it shows up consistently on the court, which is exactly what Bynum has done. Whether he’s logging 38 minutes or 18, he plays with the same intensity, the same focus, and the same hunger.
Big Stage, Bigger Challenge
Now comes the next test: a matchup with North Carolina, one of the most physically imposing teams in the country. According to KenPom, the Tar Heels boast the nation’s biggest frontcourt, featuring two 6-foot-10 forwards and a 7-footer in the middle.
That’s a lot of size to deal with, especially for a freshman still adjusting to the college game. But Bynum’s blend of strength, athleticism, and effort makes him one of Ohio State’s best options to match up. And more importantly, he’s earned the right to take on that challenge.
As Diebler put it, “If it’s a game where maybe he’s struggling a little more, maybe he’s not playing as many minutes. But he’s earned the right to play through those types of games, too.
And to be able to figure it out. Because I trust him.”
That trust is the foundation of Bynum’s rise. From a high-upside recruit to a key piece of the Buckeyes’ rotation, and now a starter heading into one of the biggest games of the season-Amare Bynum is proving he’s not just ready for the moment. He’s built for it.
Tipoff between Ohio State and North Carolina is set for 3 p.m. on CBS. All eyes will be on how the freshman handles the spotlight. If recent performances are any indication, he won’t shy away from it.