Ohio State
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Ohio (Exh.)
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Seven in Double-Figures as Buckeyes Dominate Ohio in an Exhibition Game
10/26/2025 5:53:00 PM | Men's Basketball
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State men's basketball team took the floor for the first time during the 2025-26 season Sunday afternoon in their first and only public exhibition game. The Buckeyes defeated in-state foe Ohio, 103-74, at Value City Arena.
Overall, Ohio State controlled the game on both ends of the floor, shooting efficiently and dominating the paint throughout the afternoon. The Buckeyes used strong ball movement and interior play to set the tone early, steadily building their lead behind balanced scoring from their new-look frontcourt. Ohio State out-rebounded the Bobcats 40-31 as the size and pace proved too much. The Buckeyes also forced 16 turnovers while converting 23 points off those miscues.
Individually, Ohio State was led by transfer forward Brandon Noel (Lucasville, Ohio), who made a strong debut with 18 points and seven rebounds, establishing a dominant presence inside. Fellow newcomer Christoph Tilly (Berlin, Germany) impressed in his first appearance as a Buckeye, adding 14 points, seven rebounds and five assists.
Freshman Amare Bynum (Omaha, Nebraska) showcased his playmaking ability, finishing with 13 points, five assists, and two steals, while senior guard Bruce Thornton (Fairburn, Ga.) added 13 points and three assists, controlling the game’s tempo throughout. Sophomore John Mobley Jr. (Reynoldsburg, Ohio) provided a spark with 10 points, and junior forward Devin Royal (Pickerington, Ohio) contributed nine. As a team, the Buckeyes assisted on 26 of their 35 made field goals, emphasizing unselfish play and balanced scoring across the roster.
After the two teams battled over the first 20 minutes, the Buckeyes entered the half with the 52-37 lead.
The Buckeyes’ depth and energy carried through the second half, as the team’s newcomers meshed seamlessly with returning contributors. Ohio State’s size advantage and efficiency around the rim allowed them to extend their lead to as many as 29 points midway through the second half. The Bobcats continued to battle, but Ohio State’s combination of interior strength and ball movement proved decisive in the 103–74 win.
Up Next
Ohio State will officially open the season on Monday, Nov. 3, when the Buckeyes take on IU Indy. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. and the game will be streamed live on B1G+. Tickets can be purchased at OhioStateBuckeyes.com.
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