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

Shooters emerge from beyond the arc

Floor spacing will be incredibly important for Ohio State basketball this season because the offense will more than likely run through the paint on many occasions. Kaleb Wesson is an excellent post scoring option but he cannot be at his best without strong shooters on the perimeter around him. Yet, of the returning Buckeyes on the roster, only one knocked in more than 20 3-pointers last season. This was C.J. Jackson, who made 64 total trifectas at a 37.9% rate.

Because of this, the newcomers on the roster will need to provide some immediate help on the perimeter. Most notably, incoming transfer Keyshawn Woods could emerge as the top shooter on the entire roster. Although not a high-volume shooter from beyond the arc, Woods more often than not takes advantage of open looks. After his first three years of college ball, the 6-foot-3 guard is 127-for-299 (42.5%) as a shooter from beyond the arc.

However, these two senior leaders (Jackson and Woods) cannot be the only capable and consistent shooters from beyond the arc. As already mentioned, a few of the incoming recruits could emerge as perimeter threats and their shooting will be necessary for success. In my opinion, this is why Justin Ahrens, the lowest-rated recruit in Ohio State’s class, could play an underrated role this season. Well-known as a 3-point shooter, the 6-foot-5 wing could find plenty of minutes as a floor spacer.

Additionally, Luther Muhammad and Duane Washington should also spread the floor.

On the whole, there are many reasons to believe that Ohio State basketball will take a step back this season. But, even though the Buckeyes might not be as experienced, there is a ton of young talent on this roster and Coach Holtmann should be able to turn this team into an at-large contender.