The Buckeyes answered the question in resounding fashion with an 84-66 victory over UNC Asheville in round one of the NIT on Tuesday night. Yes, this is only the NIT, but we are still out to “win it all,” even if just for pride.
They got Thad Matta his eight straight 20-win season. Jamar Butler had 21 points and 10 assists. Othello Hunter, Kosta Koufos and David Lighty also had solid games in double figures.
The Bucks played hard and determined to win, but more importantly, played a much more calm basketball and it was for the better. Few shots were forced, little panic occurred. They actually looked like they were having fun.
It was a pleasant sign for the broadcasters and 7,000-plus in attendance. A few more relaxed yet at the same time aggressive games like this one might have landed OSU in that other tournament.
A major standing ovation for those fans on Tuesday, by the way. They weren’t great in numbers, but it was one of the better crowds at the Schott this year. The true fans were there and gave some great ovations for OSU’s hustle, determination and great all-around play.
The fans were even treated to seeing every Buckeye player on the floor, including the roar-inducing Mark Titus and Danny Peters. Peters even added a lay-up to cap the scoring.
And, what would the night have been without 7-foot-7 Kenny George of UNC-A, skyscraping over everybody and dunking without leaving his feet. It was truly a sight to behold.
Round two will take place Monday at 7 at the old St. John Arena. Hopefully the Buckeyes can bring the fun down the road for another victory, this time over California.
They got Thad Matta his eight straight 20-win season. Jamar Butler had 21 points and 10 assists. Othello Hunter, Kosta Koufos and David Lighty also had solid games in double figures.
The Bucks played hard and determined to win, but more importantly, played a much more calm basketball and it was for the better. Few shots were forced, little panic occurred. They actually looked like they were having fun.
It was a pleasant sign for the broadcasters and 7,000-plus in attendance. A few more relaxed yet at the same time aggressive games like this one might have landed OSU in that other tournament.
A major standing ovation for those fans on Tuesday, by the way. They weren’t great in numbers, but it was one of the better crowds at the Schott this year. The true fans were there and gave some great ovations for OSU’s hustle, determination and great all-around play.
The fans were even treated to seeing every Buckeye player on the floor, including the roar-inducing Mark Titus and Danny Peters. Peters even added a lay-up to cap the scoring.
And, what would the night have been without 7-foot-7 Kenny George of UNC-A, skyscraping over everybody and dunking without leaving his feet. It was truly a sight to behold.
Round two will take place Monday at 7 at the old St. John Arena. Hopefully the Buckeyes can bring the fun down the road for another victory, this time over California.
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