The TCU Horned Frogs are back in the NCAA tournament, marking their fourth appearance in five years, a testament to their resilience and determination. After missing out last season, TCU turned things around in style. They started the season with a 13-9 record but found their groove just in time, winning nine of their final ten regular-season games to secure their spot.
Entering the tournament as a No. 9 seed, TCU is set to face the No. 8 seed Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State, with a 21-12 regular-season record, boasts impressive victories over top-seeded Purdue and Wisconsin.
The Buckeyes' backcourt features the dynamic duo of Bruce Thornton and John Mobley Jr. Thornton is a scoring machine, averaging 20.2 points per game while shooting an impressive 55.8% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. Mobley Jr. complements him well, putting up 15.7 points per game with a shooting accuracy of 43.6% overall and 41.8% from three-point range.
In the frontcourt, Ohio State relies on Devin Royal and Christoph Tilly. Royal contributes 13.7 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, while Tilly adds 11 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. The Buckeyes are ranked 16th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 54th in defensive efficiency, making them a formidable opponent.
On the other side, TCU brings a strong defensive presence, ranked 23rd in defensive efficiency, though they sit at 81st in offensive efficiency. This matchup promises to be a clash of styles and strategies.
For Ohio State, this marks their first NCAA tournament appearance since the 2021-2022 season, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. The action tips off tomorrow at 11:15 a.m.
Central Time on CBS, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the second round. It's a showdown that promises intensity and drama, as both teams look to make their mark on March Madness.