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Ohio State Struggles Without Star Player in Loss to Virginia
Buckeyes unable to overcome absence of leading scorer John Mobley Jr.
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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The Ohio State men's basketball team was unable to overcome the absence of their star player, John Mobley Jr., in a loss to No. 15 Virginia. Despite a strong performance from Bruce Thornton, who scored 26 points, the Buckeyes ultimately fell short, raising questions about their ability to adapt without their leading scorer.
Why it matters
Mobley Jr. is a crucial part of the Ohio State offense, and his absence highlighted the team's reliance on his playmaking and scoring ability. The loss to a ranked opponent could have implications for the Buckeyes' postseason aspirations, making Mobley's return an important factor going forward.
The details
The Buckeyes were able to maintain a lead for about 30 minutes of the game in Nashville, Tennessee, with Thornton stepping up to score 26 points. However, without Mobley Jr.'s contributions, the team was unable to hold on, ultimately falling to Virginia 59-53.
- The game took place on February 17, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.
The players
John Mobley Jr.
The leading scorer for the Ohio State men's basketball team.
Bruce Thornton
An Ohio State player who scored 26 points in the loss to Virginia.
Virginia
The No. 15 ranked opponent that defeated Ohio State.
The takeaway
This game highlighted the importance of John Mobley Jr. to the Ohio State offense and the team's struggle to adapt without their leading scorer. The loss to a ranked opponent could have significant implications for the Buckeyes' postseason hopes, making Mobley's return a crucial factor going forward.
