The State of Ohio State Basketball: A Call for Revival Amidst Football Dominance

In a recent tweet, Ohio State fan DylanEveryday expressed concern over the prevailing attitude among Buckeyes supporters regarding the state of their basketball program. He highlighted a troubling trend: many fans seem to be content with the basketball team’s lack of success simply because the football team is thriving. This sentiment raises important questions about the future of Ohio State basketball, its past achievements, and what it means for the university’s athletic identity.

The Football vs. Basketball Dichotomy

Ohio State University is renowned for its exceptional football program, consistently ranked among the best in the nation. With a rich history of success, including multiple national championships and a passionate fan base, it’s easy to see why football takes precedence in the minds of many Ohio State supporters. However, this overwhelming focus on football has led to a neglect of the basketball program, which has fallen into a period of mediocrity.

DylanEveryday’s tweet reflects a sentiment shared by many alumni and fans who remember a time when Ohio State basketball was a powerhouse. During his time as a student, the basketball team not only made the NCAA tournament annually but also achieved significant milestones, including being named a Number 1 overall seed and making it to the Final Four. This legacy of success raises the question: Why should the basketball program be treated as secondary to football?

A Rich Basketball Tradition

Historically, Ohio State basketball has a storied reputation. The program has produced numerous NBA players and has consistently competed at a high level. In the past, the Buckeyes were known for their ability to recruit top talent and develop players who could shine on the national stage. The success of the basketball team contributed to the university’s overall athletic prestige and fostered a sense of pride among alumni and students alike.

The contrast between the current state of the basketball program and its historical achievements is stark. While the football team continues to thrive, the basketball squad has struggled to maintain competitiveness in the Big Ten and nationally. The decline in performance has led to dwindling fan engagement and a sense of apathy among the Ohio State community.

The Need for a Cultural Shift

DylanEveryday’s tweet serves as a rallying cry for Ohio State fans to reassess their priorities. It’s essential for the community to recognize the importance of a successful basketball program, not only for the sake of the athletes and coaches but also for the broader university culture. A vibrant basketball program contributes to school spirit, enhances the athletic experience, and fosters camaraderie among students and alumni.

To revive Ohio State basketball, there needs to be a cultural shift among fans. Instead of viewing football success as a reason to overlook basketball shortcomings, supporters should embrace a holistic approach to athletics. This means advocating for investment in the basketball program, supporting the recruitment of promising talent, and encouraging attendance at games to create an electric atmosphere in the arena.

The Role of Leadership and Investment

One crucial aspect of revitalizing the basketball program is effective leadership. The university must ensure that its athletic department is committed to fostering a competitive basketball environment. This could involve hiring a coach with a proven track record of success, investing in training facilities, and providing resources that allow players to excel both on and off the court.

Additionally, the university should consider increasing marketing efforts to promote basketball games and create excitement around the program. Engaging with current students, alumni, and the local community can help build a loyal fan base that supports the team through thick and thin.

The Importance of Fan Engagement

Engagement is key to the success of any sports program. Ohio State fans have a unique opportunity to rekindle their passion for basketball by attending games, participating in discussions about the team’s future, and supporting initiatives that aim to enhance the program. The more fans show up and cheer for their team, the more likely it is that the program will thrive.

Social media can play a significant role in this revitalization effort. Fans can leverage platforms like Twitter to share their thoughts, rally support, and create a sense of community around the basketball team. By actively discussing the program’s potential for growth, fans help to cultivate an environment where success is not only expected but demanded.

Conclusion: A Unified Vision for Ohio State Athletics

DylanEveryday’s tweet encapsulates a sentiment that resonates with many Ohio State fans: a desire for a balanced athletic identity that values both football and basketball. As the football team continues to bask in its glory, it is crucial for supporters to rally around the basketball program and advocate for its resurgence.

By fostering a culture that values success in all sports, Ohio State can build a more robust athletic community that honors its rich history while looking forward to a brighter future. After all, the success of one program should not diminish the aspirations of another. With collective effort and a renewed commitment to excellence, Ohio State basketball can reclaim its status as a formidable force in college basketball, reminding fans and players alike of the great legacy that once was—and can be again.

There is an alarming amount of ohio state fans who believe because we are Number 1 in football… its ok to be a dead basketball program

Let me tell you, when I was a student , the basketball team made the ncaa tournament every season, was a Number 1 overall seed, made a Final…

— Official Ohio State DG (@DylanEveryday) March 23, 2025

There is an alarming amount of Ohio State fans who believe because we are Number 1 in football… it’s ok to be a dead basketball program

As a die-hard sports fan, there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your team’s potential go to waste. Recently, I stumbled upon a thought-provoking tweet by Official Ohio State DG that got me reflecting on the state of Ohio State basketball. The tweet highlights a troubling mindset among some Ohio State fans who think that since our football team is dominating, it’s perfectly fine for our basketball program to be lackluster. But is it really okay?

Understanding the Disconnect

It’s no secret that Ohio State is a powerhouse in college football. With a rich history of championships and a massive fan base, the Buckeyes have become synonymous with excellence on the gridiron. However, when it comes to basketball, the narrative is quite different. For many fans, there seems to be a disconnect. They cheer passionately for the football team but often neglect the basketball program, assuming that as long as football is thriving, everything else can take a backseat.

This mindset is not only unfair to the basketball program but also dismisses the rich history and potential that Ohio State basketball holds. When I was a student at Ohio State, the basketball team was a force to be reckoned with. We made the NCAA tournament every season, secured a Number 1 overall seed, and even made it to the Final Four. Those were exhilarating times that brought the campus together in a shared passion for basketball.

Why Winning in Basketball Matters

Winning in basketball is not just about the trophies; it’s about school spirit, community engagement, and creating lasting memories. The thrill of March Madness, the excitement of buzzer-beaters, and the camaraderie of cheering together in the stands are experiences that every Ohio State student and fan should cherish. Ignoring the basketball program while reveling in football success diminishes what it means to be part of the Ohio State community.

Moreover, a successful basketball team can enhance the overall reputation of the university. Schools like North Carolina, Duke, and Kentucky have shown that excellence in basketball can elevate a university’s profile, attract top-tier recruits, and foster a rich athletic culture. By allowing the basketball program to languish, we risk losing out on these opportunities.

Building a Strong Basketball Program

So how do we change this narrative? First, it’s essential to recognize the importance of supporting our basketball team just as passionately as we do our football team. This means showing up for games, engaging with the program on social media, and encouraging fellow fans to do the same. The more we support the team, the more we can help create a winning culture.

Additionally, it’s crucial for the university to invest in the basketball program. This includes hiring talented coaching staff, providing resources for player development, and fostering a culture of excellence. Just like in football, a strong foundation in basketball can lead to success on the court.

Reflecting on Our Past

It’s important to remember that Ohio State basketball has a proud history. The team has made numerous NCAA tournament appearances and has had its share of legendary players. Reflecting on these achievements can reignite the passion among fans. Let’s celebrate the moments when we were a dominant force in college basketball and strive to return to that level of excellence.

As fans, we need to remind ourselves that supporting all sports at Ohio State is part of what makes our community special. It’s not just about football; it’s about pride in our university and all of its athletic programs.

Engaging the Next Generation of Fans

One of the keys to revitalizing interest in Ohio State basketball is engaging younger fans. Schools often rely on the energy and enthusiasm of their student body to create a vibrant atmosphere. By fostering a love for basketball among students, we can cultivate future generations of dedicated fans. This can be achieved through promotional events, partnerships with local schools, and community outreach programs.

Creating a culture of support for basketball starts at the grassroots level. Encouraging local youth to participate in basketball programs and introducing them to Ohio State games can lay the groundwork for a new wave of passionate fans. By making basketball accessible and exciting, we can inspire the next generation to carry the torch.

The Role of Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media plays a crucial role in shaping fan engagement. Ohio State basketball can leverage platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to connect with fans, share highlights, and create buzz around upcoming games. Engaging content, such as behind-the-scenes footage and player spotlights, can help bridge the gap between the program and its supporters.

Encouraging fans to share their experiences at games and to interact with the team online can create a sense of community. When fans feel connected to the players and the program, they are more likely to show up and support the team during the season.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Buckeye Fans

In the end, we all want to see Ohio State succeed across the board, not just in football. There is an alarming amount of Ohio State fans who believe that having a number 1 football team makes it okay to have a dead basketball program, but this mindset needs to change. We must rally together as a community to support our basketball team and help it thrive once again.

Let’s take a cue from the past when Ohio State basketball was a powerhouse. It’s time to show that we care about all our sports teams and demand excellence from each program. Join me in supporting the Buckeyes, not just in football but in basketball too. Together, we can help revive the rich tradition of Ohio State basketball and create unforgettable experiences for future generations of fans.