Big Ten Basketball: Updated 2021-22 preseason rankings after NBA Draft decisions

Like Maryland, Ohio State had two big pending NBA Draft decisions to wait on. Both EJ Liddell and Duane Washington Jr. were All-Big Ten stars for the Buckeyes this past season, combining to average 32.6 ppg and 10.1 rpg. Neither were viewed as locks to get drafted but it ended up being a split decision, as Liddell opted to stay, while leading scorer Washington moved on.

Losing Washington is a blow, as he was a quality three-point and free throw shooter and proved to be a star at the Big Ten Basketball level. But credit to the coaching staff for having a Plan B in place, landing Louisiana transfer guard Cedric Russell. He was on the All-Sun Belt team this past season after averaging 17.2 ppg while making 40% of his 7.0 three-point attempts per game.

If Russell can adequately replace Washington at the two-spot, the Buckeyes will have a great chance at making a Final Four. But even if he’s not the answer, look for top-30 freshman guard  Malaki Branham to have an impact as well. Penn State transfer Jamari Wheeler isn’t the scorer that previous starter CJ Walker but is an all-conference defender and can facilitate as well.

The wing position is already set with Justice Sueing, Justin Ahrens, and Seth Towns all back for their senior seasons, while Liddell will be a favorite for Big Ten Basketball Player of the Year in 2022. Starting center Kyle Young is back for an extra year, while Indiana transfer Joey Brunk adds frontcourt depth.

Even without Washington, Ohio State will be a force to reckon with and could very well compete for a regular-season title.