Old Dominion bounces back, takes down Ohio in Sun Belt-MAC Challenge

Monarchs earn first victory in Sun Belt-MAC Challenge under coach Mike Jones

Feb. 8, 2026 at 3:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Old Dominion University's men's basketball team bounced back from a previous loss by defeating Ohio University 78-72 in the Sun Belt-MAC Challenge at Chartway Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. KC Shaw scored 17 points to lead the Monarchs, who improved their record to 8-17 on the season.

Why it matters

The win was an important bounce-back performance for Old Dominion, which had previously lost to one of the worst teams in the country. The victory in the Sun Belt-MAC Challenge also marked the first win for head coach Mike Jones in the annual interconference matchup.

The details

After Ohio jumped out to an early 16-6 lead, Old Dominion charged back to tie the game at 20 and eventually take a 40-35 lead into halftime. The two teams played a close second half, with Ohio briefly taking the lead 55-54 before Old Dominion responded with a 7-0 run to regain control. LJ Thomas scored 13 of his 13 points in the final 9:21 to help seal the victory for the Monarchs.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Old Dominion returns to Sun Belt play on Wednesday, February 12, 2026 when they host Marshall at 7:30 p.m.

The players

KC Shaw

Led Old Dominion with 17 points.

Mike Jones

Head coach of the Old Dominion men's basketball team.

Scottie Hubbard

Knocked down a three-pointer and was fouled, connecting on the free throw to tie the game at 20.

Jared Turner

Hit a three-pointer and a deep two to help Old Dominion regain the lead in the second half.

LJ Thomas

Scored 13 points, 11 of them in the final 5:29, to help secure the victory for Old Dominion.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We don't deserve that crowd. We haven't played well enough to get that, so huge shout out to our fanbase for showing up for us tonight.”

— Mike Jones, Head Coach

“I'm extremely proud of our team for playing as close to a complete game as we've had this season.”

— Mike Jones, Head Coach

What’s next

Old Dominion returns to Sun Belt play on Wednesday, February 12, 2026 when they host Marshall at 7:30 p.m.

The takeaway

This win was an important bounce-back performance for Old Dominion, which had previously struggled, and marked the first victory for head coach Mike Jones in the annual Sun Belt-MAC Challenge. The Monarchs will look to build on this win as they return to conference play.