While OSU was still wounded from that UK loss, it got great news when national freshman of the year Jared Sullinger announced he would return to Columbus for his senior season. Sullinger, who averaged 17.1 points and 10 rebounds, was the Big Ten freshman of the year as well. His return alone makes OSU the Big Ten favorite again and obviously a legitimate national title threat. Sullinger would have been a lock Top 5 pick in the 2011 NBA draft and may have gone No. 1 overall.

The Buckeyes will miss departed seniors Jon Diebler (one of the best long-range shooters in the nation last season), David Lighty and Dallas Lauderdale. But Sullinger’s added year of experience and the returns of sophomore Aaron Craft (who takes over at the point) and senior William Buford should make this another powerful team. Buford could be vital because the Buckeyes will need his outside shooting to open up the post.

And as usual Coach Thad Matta welcomes one of the nation’s top freshman classes, led by 6-foot-10 center Amir Williams. For the first time in recent memory, Matta will have two of his blue-chip big men on campus at the same time – previously all his star big men seemed to leave after one season.

The Buckeyes open their season Friday against Wright State and then play against a very good Florida team on Nov. 15. OSU also has a non-conference tilt against Kansas.

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