Ohio State Basketball: 5 keys for a successful 2018-19 campaign

COLUMBUS, OH - FEBRUARY 10: Members of the Ohio State Buckeyes huddle prior to the start of the second half of the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Value City Arena on February 10, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State defeated Iowa 82-64. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) /

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BOISE, ID – MARCH 15: Jackson #3 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Senior leadership in the backcourt shows

Guard play is incredibly important in college basketball. For some teams, excellent guard play can be in the form of a top-notch scorer while others simply need a leader or a high-quality playmaker. Regardless of the necessity, though, experienced backcourts can go a long way in college basketball. And, despite Ohio State basketball’s tough losses this offseason, the program could easily start to senior guards.

A true point guard and full-time returning starter for the Buckeyes, C.J. Jackson projects as an excellent leader during his final season with the program. Even though Kaleb Wesson might be the preseason favorite to lead the team in scoring this year, Jackson might not be far behind. As a junior last season, Jackson averaged 12.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game while knocking in 37.9% of his 3-point attempts.

However, he will have a new backcourt partners-in-crime this year, though, including Wake Forest transfer Keyshawn Woods. Another strong playmaker, the 6-foot-3 Woods sees the floor incredibly well and can also be a consistent shooter from beyond the arc. Additionally, he brings plenty of experience as a potential senior leader. Woods averaged 11.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game last season with the Demon Deacons.

With these two leading the way, it will be very difficult for opponents to force Ohio State into mistakes this season. Both Jackson and Woods understand how to take care of the ball while creating for themselves as well as others.

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