Ohio State’s men’s basketball program is reshaping its non‑conference slate for the upcoming seasons, announcing a series of high‑profile matchups that will take the Buckeyes from the familiar confines of Value City Arena to venues across the country.
A Two‑Year Home‑and‑Home with Vanderbilt
The Commodores will make their way to Columbus during the 2026‑27 campaign, giving Ohio State fans a chance to see Vanderbilt’s brand of perimeter shooting on home turf. The following year the Buckeyes will return the favor, traveling to Nashville for the second leg of the series.
Beyond the Vanderbilt series, Ohio State has slotted games that will test the team against some of the nation’s most respected programs. The season opener will see the Buckeyes open on the road against Brigham Young University in Salt Lake City, a venue known for its raucous atmosphere.
A few weeks later, Ohio State will head to New York City to compete in the CBS Sports Classic, squaring off against the University of Kansas in Madison Square Garden — a venue that has hosted countless historic college basketball moments.
Road Tests Against Notre Dame and UConn
The Buckeyes will also finish a home‑and‑home series with Notre Dame by playing a road game in South Bend, while a separate agreement will bring them to Storrs for a road contest against the University of Connecticut, marking the start of another home‑and‑home partnership.
Coaching Connections Add Intrigue
Adding a layer of personal connection, Vanderbilt assistant coach Joel Justus previously worked under Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler, who spent three seasons on the Commodores’ staff from 2016 to 2019. Justus’s return to Columbus could bring a subtle infusion of familiarity and strategy to the Buckeyes’ preparations.
These scheduled contests are more than just a way to fill the calendar; they represent a deliberate effort by Ohio State to expose its roster to a variety of playing styles, coaching philosophies, and fan environments. The result is a season that promises both competitive challenges and compelling storylines for fans across the country.