Ohio State Basketball Rebounding Key To March Run
The Ohio State basketball team has had an up-and-down season so far, but they are looking to make a run in March Madness. One key to their success will be rebounding. The Buckeyes have been one of the best rebounding teams in the Big Ten this season, and that will need to continue if they want to make a deep run in the tournament.
Why Rebounding Is Important
Rebounding is a crucial part of basketball. It gives the team that gets the rebound an extra possession, and it can also prevent the other team from getting second-chance points. In close games, rebounding can be the difference between winning and losing.
The Buckeyes' Rebounding Stats
Ohio State has been one of the top rebounding teams in the Big Ten this season. As of March 1st, the Buckeyes ranked second in the conference in rebounding margin, outrebounding their opponents by an average of 4.4 rebounds per game. They are also second in defensive rebounding percentage, which measures the percentage of missed shots that a team rebounds on the defensive end.
The Buckeyes have been especially strong on the offensive glass. They lead the conference in offensive rebounding percentage, which measures the percentage of missed shots that a team rebounds on the offensive end of the court. This has given Ohio State many second-chance opportunities and has helped them score points even when their initial shots don't fall.
The Buckeyes' Standout Rebounders
The Buckeyes have a number of players who have contributed to their rebounding success this season. Kaleb Wesson, a 6'9" junior forward, has been the team's top rebounder, averaging 9.3 rebounds per game. He is also one of the team's leading scorers, averaging 14 points per game.
D.J. Carton, a freshman guard, has also been a strong rebounder for Ohio State. He averages 3.9 rebounds per game, despite being one of the smaller players on the team at 6'2".
How Ohio State Can Use Rebounding To Win
If the Buckeyes want to make a deep run in March Madness, rebounding will need to be a key part of their game plan. One way they can use rebounding to their advantage is by getting second-chance points. Offensive rebounds can lead to easy putbacks or kick-out passes for open three-point shots. Ohio State has several players who can knock down three-pointers, so second-chance opportunities could be a real weapon for them.
Rebounding can also help the Buckeyes on the defensive end of the court. By preventing their opponents from getting offensive rebounds, they can limit their opponents' scoring opportunities. The Buckeyes have been a strong defensive team all season, and rebounding is a big part of that success.
The Bottom Line
Rebounding will be a key part of Ohio State's game plan in March Madness. If they can continue to be one of the best rebounding teams in the Big Ten, they will have a good chance to make a deep run in the tournament. With players like Kaleb Wesson and D.J. Carton leading the way, the Buckeyes have the talent to compete with anyone in the country. So keep an eye on Ohio State's rebounding in March, it could be the key to their success.