Ohio State leaned on its backcourt toughness to outlast Notre Dame in a marquee nonconference showdown. The first half was a tug-of-war, with neither team leading by more than six. Notre Dame’s precision offense forced the Buckeyes to stay locked in, while Jake Diebler’s squad answered with athleticism and perimeter shot-making.
Coming out of halftime, improved ball movement unlocked a 9-0 run fueled by transition finishes and downhill drives. The Fighting Irish hit timely threes to stay close, but Ohio State’s defense tightened, closing driving lanes and cleaning the glass.
With under three minutes to play, the Buckeye guards seized control. A pull-up jumper, followed by a steal and layup, gave Ohio State a two-possession cushion it never relinquished. Diebler praised the composure: “Notre Dame is disciplined. You have to stay locked in for 40 minutes. I’m proud of how our guys answered every punch.”
The win showcases Ohio State’s growing chemistry and sets the tone as Big Ten play nears.