In March 2024, Chris Jent, a former Ohio State standout and 2024 NBA champion, emerged as a leading candidate for the university's men's basketball head coaching vacancy. The announcement set off a wave of public endorsement from former teammates and players who launched a coordinated text message campaign to rally support.
The Candidate and the Campaign
More than a dozen Buckeye alumni voiced their backing, while NBA star LeBron James and veteran coach Mike Brown publicly praised Jent's basketball acumen and leadership. Their statements highlighted a rare alignment of former players, current staff, and championship experience behind the candidate.
Jent's résumé includes a four‑year playing stint at Ohio State (1989‑1992) where he averaged 8.2 points per game, two assistant coaching periods under Thad Matta, and a recent role as associate head coach with the New York Knicks, with whom he captured the 2024 NBA title. His long‑standing connection to the program and proven championship pedigree made him a natural fit in the eyes of many.
Ultimately, the university opted to promote Jake Diebler to the full‑time head coaching position. The decision came after a thorough evaluation of internal candidates and external pressures, with athletic director Ross Bjork overseeing the final selection process.
The transition to Diebler marks a new chapter for Ohio State basketball, one that will test how the program balances alumni enthusiasm with its strategic direction. While Jent's supporters remain vocal, the focus now shifts to how the new coaching staff will build on the foundation laid by years of Buckeye tradition.