Predicting Jake Diebler’s Potential Lineups for the 2025-26 Ohio State Basketball Season in His Second Year as Head Coach

Jake Diebler enters his second full season as the head coach of Ohio State men’s basketball with momentum, excitement, and expectations that are higher than they’ve been in years. After taking over midseason and galvanizing the program with energy and a renewed sense of purpose, Diebler has now had a full offseason to build the Buckeyes in his image. The 2025-26 roster looks to be a fascinating blend of returning talent, promising young players, and key additions from the transfer portal.

As Diebler seeks to elevate Ohio State back into Big Ten title contention and national relevancy, the question on everyone’s mind is what the rotation will look like. He showed during his interim stint that he’s willing to make bold decisions—benching veterans for better-fitting role players, emphasizing defense, and pushing tempo when needed. With an upgraded roster and a clear runway to implement his system, Diebler’s lineup choices will shape the trajectory of the season.

The starting point is Bruce Thornton, the returning floor general and emotional leader of the team. Thornton’s combination of toughness, decision-making, and defensive grit makes him a lock to start at point guard. He took a major leap in his sophomore campaign, showing improved shooting and the ability to carry the offense in late-game moments. His leadership will be even more critical as Diebler integrates new faces into the program.

Next to Thornton in the backcourt could be Meechie Johnson, the former South Carolina standout who transferred back to Columbus to finish his college career where it began. Johnson brings microwave scoring and shot-creation, but he’s also matured into a better passer and defender than when he left Ohio State. Pairing him with Thornton would give the Buckeyes one of the most experienced and explosive backcourts in the Big Ten. Johnson’s ability to play off the ball and attack closeouts could be a valuable asset in Diebler’s motion-heavy offense.

But there’s also a case to be made for freshman phenom John Mobley Jr. pushing for major minutes right away. A top-30 recruit nationally, Mobley is a sharpshooter with deep range and advanced feel for the game. While he may come off the bench early in the season, it wouldn’t be surprising if he eventually forces Diebler to go with a three-guard lineup to keep all his best offensive weapons on the court.

On the wing, Devin Royal is a name to watch. The 6-foot-7 forward was a bright spot during his freshman season and showed flashes of becoming a high-level contributor. With a summer to improve his handle and shot consistency, Royal could blossom into a versatile two-way player. His ability to guard multiple positions, rebound, and knock down open threes makes him a natural fit for Diebler’s system. If he can improve his lateral quickness, he could become a lockdown defender and a staple of the starting five.

The frontcourt gets particularly intriguing with the addition of transfer forward Tre Carroll from FGCU. The 6-foot-8 stretch four brings a unique blend of shooting and rebounding. Carroll shot over 40% from three last season and has the mobility to defend the perimeter. He provides spacing that opens up driving lanes for Thornton and Johnson while being switchable enough to stay on the floor against smaller lineups. Diebler could use Carroll as a modern-day four who helps transform the Buckeyes into a more perimeter-oriented team.

At center, Felix Okpara remains the likely starter, anchoring the defense with his rim protection and rebounding. The 6-foot-11 big man improved offensively as a sophomore, becoming more comfortable in pick-and-roll situations and developing a soft touch around the rim. Okpara’s presence gives the Buckeyes a safety net on defense and a lob threat on offense. His ability to switch on the perimeter adds defensive versatility that Diebler values highly.

Still, the emergence of Austin Parks cannot be ignored. The sophomore center showed flashes late last season and brings a more physical, traditional post presence. He’s not the rim protector Okpara is, but he could be used in specific matchups where low-post scoring is needed. Parks also allows Diebler to rest Okpara without sacrificing too much size or strength in the paint.

Beyond the starting five, the bench is filled with intriguing pieces that could push for major roles. Scotty Middleton, a long and athletic wing, has the tools to become a disruptive defender and slasher. If his shot continues to develop, he could be the type of glue guy every contender needs. Then there’s Bowen Hardman, a known three-point marksman who could space the floor and give Diebler a spark off the bench. His role may fluctuate depending on matchups, but his shooting makes him a valuable chess piece.

Another x-factor is incoming freshman Colin White, a 6-foot-6 wing who brings toughness, rebounding, and an underrated offensive skill set. While he may not start early, White’s high basketball IQ and willingness to do the dirty work could earn him consistent minutes as the season progresses. Diebler is known to reward hustle and effort, and White checks those boxes in every way.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on whether Diebler adds another piece through the portal before the season tips off. There’s always movement in the spring and summer, and with a scholarship or two potentially available, Ohio State could look to add a veteran wing or combo forward to round out the rotation. If that happens, it would shake up the predicted depth chart once again.

Ultimately, Diebler’s lineups will likely vary based on opponent, game flow, and health. But his core principles—defensive intensity, ball movement, and unselfish play—will guide his decisions. He has shown he won’t shy away from playing young players if they earn it, and he’s not afraid to shake up the starting five if it benefits the team.

One possible starting lineup to begin the season could be Thornton at point guard, Johnson at shooting guard, Royal at small forward, Carroll at power forward, and Okpara at center. That unit offers balance—shooting, defense, experience, and versatility. Off the bench, Mobley could be the sixth man, with Middleton, Parks, White, and Hardman rounding out a nine- or ten-man rotation. That type of depth allows Diebler to play matchups, push the pace, and keep legs fresh over a grueling Big Ten slate.

What sets this roster apart from last year’s is its fit and flexibility. The players brought in seem tailor-made for what Diebler wants to do. There’s more shooting, better defensive length, and a clearer hierarchy. With Thornton leading the way and a group of hungry newcomers ready to prove themselves, this Ohio State team has the potential to surprise people nationally.

Of course, success will depend not just on talent but also on chemistry and buy-in. Diebler’s task now is to mold this collection of players into a cohesive unit that competes every night. If he can manage roles, build trust, and foster internal competition, the Buckeyes could make a real run in both the Big Ten and NCAA Tournament.

The upcoming 2025-26 campaign is about more than just wins and losses for Jake Diebler. It’s about proving that his vision can work, that Ohio State basketball is on the rise again, and that he is the right man for the job. Predicting lineups this early comes with risk, but one thing is certain—the Buckeyes will have options, and with Diebler pulling the strings, they’ll be ready to compete with anyone.