BUCKEYES 101

With a "we gotta get this" attitute, Ohio State took the floor against Illinois last night ready to play. Within the first 2 minutes, you knew this was going to be a much different game than the first time these two teams met.

Ohio State quickly pulled out to a lead and never let up. Their energy was high, and their determination was higher. Less than 5 minutes into the game, the Buckeyes had built their lead to 11 points. Three minutes later the lead was up to 21. The Buckeyes continued to dominate even after Coach Thad Matta began giving significant playing time time to his bench players. The first half ended with Ohio State leading by 16, 42-26.

The Buckeye domination continued in the second half. At the outset Ohio State let the Illini know that they were not letting up. After that they simply began building on their lead. Because they continued to play so well for the starters, Coach Matta was able to continue getting bench players more playing time.

Ohio State ends the game with a 16-point win, 83-67.

This was a good game for the Buckeyes to regain some confidence before heading into some tough games on the road. Illinois did not present any where near the type of opponent that Ohio State is going to see in their remaining three games with Wisconsin and at Northwestern and at Michigan State. But it was nice to see them come out and take control of the game on their home court. It was also nice to see the bench players take full advantage of their time on the court. While there were plenty of mistakes to go around, they could have easily allowed the Illini to get back into the game, but they didn't. They stayed on top of them, and preserved the win for the Buckeyes. 

Notable play off the bench included Shannon Scott who played for 22 minutes. Scott isn't known for his scoring as his 0 points indicates, but he played the point very well, and managed 3 defensive rebounds, 4 assists and 1 steal. Sam Thompson also had a good night. In 11 minutes of play he had 4 points, 1 offensive rebound and 2 blocks. Evan Ravenel did his usual good job in the post. Within his 9 minutes of play he netted 6 points, 1 assist and 2 rebounds. Amir Williams saw 7 minutes of play time, finishing with 3 points and 3 rebounds. Jordan Sibert had 2 points in 6 minutes, LaQuinton Ross had 5 points, 1 assist and 1 rebound in 5 minutes, J.D. Weatherspoon had an unusually off night with only 1 rebound in 3 minutes, and Trey McDonald got into the game for just over a minute at the end. In short, every Buckeye player got into the game during this one. 

Deshaun Thomas was the leading scorer on the game with 19 points. He also managed 5 rebounds, 4 of which were defensive. Not a bad stat for a player who's not known for his defense.

William Buford ended the night with 17 points, 2 rebounds and a steal. More importantly, when he was on the court he was imposing he leadership, and when he was off the court he was inspiring his team. It wasn't needed quite as much last night, but it was still nice to see, and good practice for the lone senior. 

Jared Sullinger had an off night, only managing 9 points, 1 block and 6 rebounds before a rare 5th foul sent him to the bench with just over 5 minutes remaining.

Aaron Craft, who has been struggling the last few games, was back in form with 11 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. 

Lenzelle Smith, Jr. had an outstanding night that goes beyond the statistics. He finished the night with 7 points, 3 assists, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal, but the energy level he brought to the game was uplifting to the rest of his team. He was often the play maker in this game, and because of his effort, often found himself in the right place at the right time. Hopefully he'll be able to maintain that level of play against future, more resistant opponents.

All-in-all a good effort for the Buckeyes, and a great gain in experience for the bench players. 

Next up for Ohio State is Wisconsin, at home on Sunday the 26th at 4:00pm ET. The game is scheduled to air on CBS.

- [email protected]

@buckeyes101jeff

 

 

Tags: Buckeyes, Deshaun Thomas, Illinois, Jared Sullinger, Jordan Sibert, LaQuinton Ross, NCAA, Ohio State, Sam Thompson, Shannon Scott, Trey McDonald, William Buford

Related Videos

Returning Soon!!!!

Related posts

• Ohio State Vs. Illinois: Game Review
• Ohio State Buckeyes Women’s Basketball Team Defeats Illinois
• Ohio State Buckeyes Squeeze Out a Win Over the Wiscosin Badgers