All aboard the D’Angelo Russell express.
Ohio State is suddenly back in the mix for a Big Ten title after a three-game winning streak that included blowout victories over Maryland and Indiana, thanks largely to the brilliance of Russell. Now the question is whether the future pro can lead the Buckeyes to a strong regular-season finish to put them in position for a favorable NCAA tournament seed.
While he may be the most important one, Russell is far from the only key for Ohio State the rest of the way. Here is a look at some of the factors that will determine where Thad Matta’s squad stands at the end of the year both in the Big Ten and the national picture.
D’Angelo Russell’s Continued Brilliance
In the past five games alone—all against Big Ten competition—Russell has 121 points, 45 rebounds, 30 assists and nine steals. He has taken the conference and country by storm and could very well be playing himself into an NBA contract of a lifetime.
Ohio State’s offense has changed during this winning streak because Shannon Scott is playing off the ball more, while Russell is asked to be the creator at the end of the shot clock. It makes sense considering Russell is Ohio State’s best playmaker, and he has responded accordingly by creating scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates.
With only five players on the floor at once, a single and transcendent talent can control the flow of an entire basketball…
Continue Reading: Ohio State Basketball: Buckeyes’ Keys to a Strong Regular-Season Finish
