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Big Ten Basketball: Buy or sell Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Purdue and Wisconsin?

By Tristan Freeman

Dec 6, 2022; New York, New York, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini forward Matthew Mayer (24) celebrates his three point shot against the Texas Longhorns during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2022; New York, New York, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini forward Matthew Mayer (24) celebrates his three point shot against the Texas Longhorns during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Big Ten Basketball Ohio State Buckeyes forward Brice Sensabaugh Basketball Ceb Mbk Minnesota Minnesota At Ohio State
Big Ten Basketball Ohio State Buckeyes forward Brice Sensabaugh Basketball Ceb Mbk Minnesota Minnesota At Ohio State /

Ohio State Buckeyes – 10-6 (2-3)

Every year, it seems that one freshman emerges for the Buckeyes to play a key role. This time, it’s Brice Sensabaugh, who leads the team with 16.8 ppg. He, Justice Sueing, and Zed Key have been one of the top frontcourts in the Big Ten, which has been the strength of the team.

In the backcourt freshman guard Bruce Thornton has essentially replaced Isaac Likelele as the starting point guard and has taken most of the minutes. Sean McNeil, who has become the one transfer still with consistent playing time, is shooting just under 40% from three-point range as the starting two-guard.

There’s plenty to like about this team but the concern is whether or not they’re relying too much on the freshmen, who may be hitting a wall as of late. Ohio State has lost three straight games by a combined 12 points, including a two-point defeat against the Purdue Boilermakers.

Ultimately, this is a team that’s equipped to make a run in March. Both of the starting guards are quality three-point shooters, with plenty of frontcourt depth that’s capable of scoring. This team doesn’t have that star player but as Key has shown in the past, he can have that signature performance against big opponents. With still room to grow for both Sensabaugh and Thornton, look for the Buckeyes to make a push up the conference ladder.

Buy

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