Ohio State Coach Backs Diebler Ahead of NCAA Tourney

University President Ted Carter expresses confidence in head coach Jake Diebler as team makes late-season push.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Ohio State University President Ted Carter has voiced his full support for head basketball coach Jake Diebler as the Buckeyes make a late-season push for the NCAA Tournament. Carter emphasized that the team and its fans should have an "expect-to-win attitude" heading into the final stretch of the season.

Why it matters

Ohio State's men's basketball program has struggled in recent years, failing to make the NCAA Tournament since 2022. Diebler's leadership has been called into question by some fans and media, making Carter's public backing an important show of confidence as the team fights for a tournament berth.

The details

In his comments, Carter praised Diebler's coaching abilities and player development, noting the team's improved performance in the second half of the season. The university president expressed optimism about the Buckeyes' chances of earning an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, provided they continue their strong play down the stretch.

  • The Buckeyes are currently 18-10 overall and 10-7 in Big Ten play with four regular season games remaining.
  • Ohio State's final regular season game is on March 7, 2026.

The players

Ted Carter

The president of Ohio State University, who has voiced his support for head basketball coach Jake Diebler amid the team's push for the NCAA Tournament.

Jake Diebler

The head coach of the Ohio State men's basketball team, who is leading the Buckeyes' late-season charge toward an NCAA Tournament berth.

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What they’re saying

“We must have an expect-to-win attitude as we head into the final stretch of the season. I have full confidence in Coach Diebler and this team.”

— Ted Carter, President, Ohio State University (bucksinsider.com)

What’s next

Ohio State's next game is on February 22nd against Michigan State, a crucial matchup as the Buckeyes look to bolster their NCAA Tournament resume.

The takeaway

President Carter's public backing of Coach Diebler underscores the high stakes for Ohio State's basketball program as it aims to return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in several years. The Buckeyes' late-season surge has reinvigorated the fan base, who will be closely watching to see if the team can secure a tournament bid in the coming weeks.