Bruce Thornton breaks Ohio State scoring record as Buckeyes defeat Indiana 91-77 on Senior Day

Senior guard Thornton surpasses Buckeye legend Dennis Hopson as Ohio State's all-time leading scorer in final home game.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In his final home game as a Buckeye, senior guard Bruce Thornton broke Ohio State's all-time scoring record, passing Buckeye legend Dennis Hopson with 2,110 career points. Thornton finished with a game-high 25 points and 7 assists to lead Ohio State to a 91-77 victory over Indiana, solidifying the Buckeyes' NCAA Tournament resume.

Why it matters

Thornton's historic achievement caps off an outstanding college career and cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in Ohio State basketball history. The win also boosts the Buckeyes' chances of making the NCAA Tournament for the first time in Thornton's career, providing a fitting end to the senior's time in Columbus.

The details

Thornton broke the record with a 3-pointer late in the first half, drawing a standing ovation from the 18,000 fans at Value City Arena. The senior guard was recognized at halftime, standing alongside former Buckeye great Dennis Hopson. Thornton finished the game strong, leading Ohio State to a comfortable victory over Indiana.

  • Thornton broke the record with 44 seconds left in the first half.
  • Thornton was recognized at halftime for surpassing Hopson as Ohio State's all-time leading scorer.
  • Thornton exited the game with 56 seconds remaining, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.

The players

Bruce Thornton

A senior guard for Ohio State who finished his career as the program's all-time leading scorer with 2,110 points, surpassing Buckeye legend Dennis Hopson.

Dennis Hopson

A former Ohio State basketball standout who held the program's all-time scoring record until Thornton broke it in his final home game.

Jake Diebler

The head coach of the Ohio State men's basketball team, who guided the Buckeyes to a victory on Senior Day.

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What they’re saying

“It was a great feeling. I was so caught up in the game that I really couldn't take it all in.”

— Bruce Thornton (thelantern.com)

“We knew we were going to honor a few guys here. But how you honor them is by doing your job at a high level.”

— Jake Diebler, Head Coach (thelantern.com)

What’s next

The win over Indiana should solidify Ohio State's place in the NCAA Tournament, providing Thornton and the Buckeyes with one final opportunity to compete for a national championship in his senior season.

The takeaway

Bruce Thornton's record-breaking performance on Senior Day is a testament to his outstanding career as a Buckeye. His legacy as one of the greatest players in Ohio State history is now cemented, and his leadership and contributions to the program will be remembered for years to come.