NCAA Basketball: Updated way-too-early 2019-20 top-25
14. Ohio State Buckeyes
Chris Holtmann has been tremendous since taking over as the leader of the Ohio State Buckeyes. He has already reached back-to-back NCAA Tournaments and the expectation is that the streak will continue during this coming season. Even though Keyshawn Woods and C.J. Jackson are graduating, the cupboard is full of talent. The Buckeyes are not necessarily expected to be the Big Ten champion this season, but expectations are quite high due to the returning talent.
At the top of the scouting report for this coming season will be Kaleb Wesson. A 6-foot-9 junior big man, Wesson is exceptional when working in the post. He is coming off a season in which he averaged 14.6 points and 6.9 rebounds and the expectation is that he takes the next step as one of the best forwards in the nation. Additionally, Duane Washington Jr. and Luther Muhammad look more than poised to take the sophomore leap. Kyle Young is one of the best “glue guys” in the country.
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It is also important to mention that the Buckeyes should see some strong contributions from their incoming freshman. Perhaps above all others, highly-touted point guard D.J. Carton should be a major part of the rotation. He is about as steady as they come as a floor general and will either start or be a key reserve. There are plenty of other talented players in the class but he is the crowning jewel, in my opinion.
Coach Holtmann clearly has plenty of talent on the roster and is arguably a top-20 coach in the country. The Buckeyes look poised for a great season.