Amare Bynum might only be a freshman, but he’s already turning heads in Columbus-and for good reason. The 6'8", 220-pound forward has been a spark plug off the bench for Ohio State, bringing a blend of size, energy, and skill that’s hard to ignore.
Through the early stretch of the season, Bynum is averaging 7.4 points and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 52% from the field in just 20 minutes a night. That’s the kind of production that doesn’t just show up in the box score-it shifts the momentum of games.
What’s stood out most about Bynum isn’t just the numbers, though. It’s how quickly he’s adapted to the college game.
His physical tools were never in question-he’s long, athletic, and plays with a motor that doesn’t quit-but it’s his feel for the game that’s been most impressive. Whether it’s crashing the glass, finishing through contact, or making the extra rotation on defense, Bynum looks like a player who belongs.
And he’s doing it all with the poise of someone well beyond his years.
Take his performance against Western Michigan: 12 points and 10 rebounds in a game that showcased his ability to dominate the paint on both ends. Then there was the matchup with Northwestern, where he poured in 11 points and grabbed five boards-another reminder that he can hold his own against Big Ten competition. These aren’t just flashes; they’re building blocks.
Ohio State has needed a lift from its bench, and Bynum has delivered. His ability to bring energy and physicality when he checks in has been a difference-maker, especially with the Buckeyes still figuring out their offensive identity.
He’s not just filling minutes-he’s filling a role that’s been lacking. His presence has helped stabilize the second unit, giving the Buckeyes a dependable option when the starters need a breather.
What makes Bynum so intriguing is that he’s still just scratching the surface. His finishing around the rim is already a strength, and he’s shown a knack for cleaning up missed shots with second-chance points. Add in his defensive versatility-he can switch, battle in the post, and contest shots-and you’ve got a player who’s going to be tough to keep off the floor as the season wears on.
As the Buckeyes gear up for the grind of Big Ten play, Bynum’s role is only going to grow. Conference games bring a different level of physicality and intensity, and Ohio State will need every ounce of toughness it can get. If the veterans can hold steady and the younger guys like Bynum continue to rise to the occasion, this team could be dangerous come March.
For now, Bynum is doing exactly what you want from a freshman: learning, competing, and making an impact. And if his early performances are any indication, the Buckeyes might just have found a foundational piece for the future-and a difference-maker for the present.