College Basketball Preview: 4. Ohio State Buckeyes

Sullinger gets the hype but the sophomore forward Thomas is solid and will play a bigger role for the Buckeyes.

4. Ohio State Buckeyes Key Returnees: F/C Jared Sullinger, G William Buford, G Aaron Craft
G Aaron Craft- Sophomore
G William Buford- Senior
F Deshaun Thomas- Sophomore
F Jared Sullinger- Sophomore
C Amir Williams- Freshman
Sixth- Jordan Sibert- Sophomore
Top Recruit- Shannon Scott
Calling the Buckeyes this years top team would definitely be tempting. They won 20 plus to begin last season and return the player that got them there in Jared Sullinger. But overall Ohio State is just too young to dominate but a championship game still isn't out of the question. Sullinger is overwhelming for anybody facing him and the Buckeyes will constantly be dishing for him in the paint. William Buford is the lone senior on the squad. He is smart and can shoot the ball occasionally. Reigning Sixth-man of the Year Aaron Craft is a great defender and will play a bigger role now on the offensive end. Deshaun Thomas is strong and effective but a breakout season is still a year away. Thad Matta once more brought in a great recruiting class with guard Shannon Scott, forwards Sam Thompson and LaQuinton Ross along with center Amir Williams. Any number of them could start early but Williams may have the edge becuase he has experience.
Bottom Line: Thad Matta has another championship caliber team for 2011-2012 but getting there is a different story.