Ohio State Upsets Purdue Behind Mobley's Big Game

Buckeyes keep NCAA Tournament hopes alive with 82-74 victory

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Ohio State pulled off an important 82-74 upset win over Purdue on Sunday, led by a strong performance from shooting guard John Mobley Jr. Mobley scored 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting, including 5-of-8 from 3-point range, after missing three games due to a finger injury. The win keeps the Buckeyes' NCAA Tournament hopes alive as they sit in 9th place in the Big Ten standings.

Why it matters

This victory is crucial for Ohio State's chances of making the NCAA Tournament, as they look to end a three-year drought of missing the Big Dance. The Buckeyes have struggled at times this season, but this upset over a ranked Purdue team could provide the momentum they need down the stretch.

The details

Ohio State trailed by as many as 7 points early, but fought back to tie the game at 19 with 8:17 left in the first half. The Buckeyes led the rest of the way, building a lead as large as 16 points in the second half. Purdue cut the deficit to 6 points twice, but Ohio State responded each time to secure the victory.

  • Ohio State upset Purdue 82-74 on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • The Buckeyes head to Penn State on Wednesday, March 5, 2026 for another crucial game.

The players

John Mobley Jr.

Ohio State's starting shooting guard, who scored a team-high 21 points on 8-of-15 shooting, including 5-of-8 from 3-point range, in the win over Purdue.

Jake Diebler

Ohio State's head coach, who has now led the Buckeyes to three upsets of Purdue in his three seasons at the helm.

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What they’re saying

“It had been a while since Ohio State fans had seen John Mobley Jr. at his best. The shooting guard injured a finger on his right hand in the Feb. 11 win over USC and missed three games while recovering.”

— Patrick Murphy, 247Sports Writer (247sports.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.