The Ohio State Buckeyes basketball team secured a much-needed victory against Wisconsin, marking their first Quad 1 and ranked win of the season. This triumph nudged them closer to the NCAA Tournament bubble. However, another win against a ranked opponent would solidify their position.
Facing Michigan State on Sunday, the Buckeyes were up against a formidable challenge, especially without key players Juni Mobley and Devin Royal. Despite the odds, Bruce Thornton delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 32 points and showcasing his determination to lead Ohio State to victory. Unfortunately, the Buckeyes fell short, losing 66-60, as they struggled to maintain momentum in the second half.
Thornton's effort was remarkable, but he found himself without much support from his teammates. While Thornton managed to score under pressure, his teammates missed several open opportunities, leaving him to carry much of the offensive load alone.
Looking ahead, Ohio State has one more chance to secure a win against a ranked team when they face seventh-ranked Purdue. Thornton will need more assistance from his teammates to clinch this crucial victory and secure a spot in March Madness.
One area for improvement is their free-throw shooting. The Buckeyes hit only 59 percent from the line against Michigan State. Improving their performance at the charity stripe will be essential as they tackle the critical games remaining in their schedule.