It wasn’t expected to be much of a test, but some of these early non-conference games are invaluable opportunities to get some of the young guys playing time. It also provides a chance to further cement roles and the culture of a team still trying to figure itself out.
Ohio State did that and then some Monday night against Stetson, winning easily and thoroughly by a score of 86-51. There will ultimately be bigger fish to fry for this Buckeye squad, but there’s still plenty to learn and observe anytime the bright lights go on.
As we do after every Ohio State basketball game, we give you three things that stood out.
Next … D.J. Carton’s athletic ability
Freshman D.J. Carton’s going to be star
True freshman point guard D.J. Carton is still figuring things out at this level, but his athletic ability and skill set is obvious on the court. At just 6-2, he jumps out of the gym like he’s 6-7.
He can get to the rim, but he’s also able to be a sharpshooter from the outside if needed. He’s a matchup nightmare, and as he gets more time to polish his game as things develop this year, he’s only going to get better.
It’s been a long time since someone with his explosiveness has patrolled the guard spot in Columbus, and it’s going to be fun to watch him make highlight after highlight in the Scarlet and Gray.
Next … Duane Washington’s game
Duane Washington is a weapon when he stays within himself
We were all salivating when combo guard Duane Washington broke onto the scene last year. He wasn’t a highly recruited kid, but he flashed a skill from deep sorely needed on last year’s squad. Then, we saw a little bit of his ability to climb the ladder and make plays around the hoop.
But then, when things began to break down in the middle of the season, Washington often tried to do too much. He would force the issue, dribble into traffic and unleash some shots that just aren’t a part of his — or anyone’s — game.
His skill set is camping out on the perimeter, getting a feed and lighting the nets on fire. He can drive when the defense overplays to take it away and be fine, but he has to let the game come to him. When he does, he can fill it up and still get good shots for the rest of the team.
Next … E.J. Liddell has a mature game
Freshman E.J. Liddell is impressive with his floor game
I think we’re eventually going to see freshman forward E.J. Liddell turn into an All Big-Ten type performer in Columbus, but with the talent and depth available on the team this year, it’s unlikely to happen right away.
But that doesn’t mean he’s not an impressive young man. It’s clear he understands the game, plays his role well, and plays larger than his 6-6 frame with his body positioning and knack for timing up opponents shots underneath to get blocks.
The former two-time Illinois Mr. Basketball is going to be a good one folks.
