ESPN Analyst Boosts Ohio State in Latest Bracketology

Lunardi projects Buckeyes as higher seed in NCAA Tournament field

Feb. 22, 2026 at 3:19pm

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ESPN college basketball analyst Joe Lunardi has updated his latest NCAA Tournament bracketology projections, moving Ohio State up in his seeding predictions. The Buckeyes, currently ranked No. 16 in the AP Top 25 poll, are now projected as a higher seed in Lunardi's latest bracket forecast.

Why it matters

Lunardi's bracketology is closely watched by college basketball fans and teams alike, as his projections are seen as an early indicator of each program's potential NCAA Tournament positioning. Ohio State's rise in Lunardi's latest bracket is a positive sign for the Buckeyes' postseason prospects as they aim to secure a high seed and favorable matchups in the upcoming tournament.

The details

In his latest bracketology update, Lunardi has moved Ohio State up to a No. 5 seed, an improvement from their previous projected seeding. This shift reflects the Buckeyes' strong performance so far this season, as they have compiled a 22-6 record and are firmly in the mix for an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament.

  • Lunardi released his latest bracketology projections on February 22, 2026.

The players

Joe Lunardi

An ESPN college basketball analyst known for his influential NCAA Tournament bracketology projections.

Ohio State Buckeyes

The men's basketball team of Ohio State University, currently ranked No. 16 in the AP Top 25 poll.

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What they’re saying

“Ohio State's rise in the latest bracketology is a testament to their strong performance this season. They are firmly in the mix for a high seed and a favorable path in the NCAA Tournament.”

— Joe Lunardi, ESPN College Basketball Analyst (bucksinsider.com)

What’s next

Ohio State will look to continue their strong play and solidify their position in Lunardi's bracketology as they approach the end of the regular season and the start of the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Lunardi's updated bracketology projections highlight Ohio State's potential to make a deep run in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, providing a boost of confidence for the Buckeyes as they aim to secure a high seed and favorable matchups in the postseason.