Ohio State Sets 2025–26 Staff Roster, Including First Season for Brian Walsh as Assistant Coach

The Ohio State men’s basketball program has officially unveiled its 2025–26 schedule, setting the stage for a pivotal season under second-year head coach Jake Diebler. With Brian Walsh joining the program in his first season as an assistant coach, anticipation is building around how the Buckeyes’ revamped coaching staff will influence the team’s trajectory. A six-game home stretch kicks off the season before the first road test, making November a critical month for setting the tone ahead of Big Ten play.

Season Opener vs. IU Indy Nov. 3 at Value City Arena

The Buckeyes’ journey begins on Monday, November 3, 2025, when they host IU Indy at Value City Arena in Columbus. This season opener marks the first glimpse of Jake Diebler’s second-year vision for the program, coupled with the impact of his reshaped coaching staff. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with fans eager to see how the squad performs out of the gate. Starting strong is essential, especially as these early games serve as stepping stones toward building the foundation for postseason aspirations.

Home Game vs. Purdue Fort Wayne Nov. 7

Four days later, on Friday, November 7, the Buckeyes stay in Columbus to face Purdue Fort Wayne at Value City Arena. Hosting back-to-back Indiana opponents provides Ohio State with a chance to find rhythm early in the season. It’s a matchup that offers the perfect opportunity to refine rotations, test defensive strategies, and establish confidence before facing high-profile programs later in November. With the new coaching staff settling in, this game will help set a clear tone for how the Buckeyes intend to compete night in and night out.

Home Game vs. Appalachian State Nov. 11

The early-season home stand continues on Tuesday, November 11, when Ohio State hosts Appalachian State. By this point in the schedule, the Buckeyes aim to have their rotations stabilized and systems sharpened. Appalachian State presents a mid-major challenge that will test the team’s defensive adaptability and offensive execution. With Brian Walsh contributing fresh coaching insights, this matchup is another chance to see how the Buckeyes handle strategic adjustments while maintaining their home-court dominance.

Home Game vs. Notre Dame Nov. 16

On Sunday, November 16, Ohio State faces one of its most notable non-conference opponents when Notre Dame arrives at Value City Arena. This Big Ten vs. ACC matchup carries weight beyond the win-loss column. A victory against a historically competitive program like Notre Dame could elevate Ohio State’s national profile early in the season. Jake Diebler will look to his veterans and emerging leaders to step up in this statement game, one that could influence seeding and perception heading into Big Ten competition.

Early Season Excitement

With a revamped coaching structure and anticipation building for the season opener coming up soon and, Ohio Fanatics promos are being rolled out to match fan enthusiasm around the Buckeyes’ new-look staff dynamics. These promotions aim to energize supporters and drive engagement as Ohio State builds momentum through its opening stretch of home games. For fans filling Value City Arena, these promos enhance the game-day experience and foster a stronger connection between the team and its growing community of followers. The synergy between coaching changes and heightened fan involvement sets a new tone for the program.

Home Game vs. Western Michigan Nov. 20

On Thursday, November 20, Ohio State faces Western Michigan at Value City Arena, looking to maintain dominance during its extended home slate. By this stage of the schedule, the Buckeyes will have established a clearer identity on both sides of the ball. Matchups like this allow the team to fine-tune offensive sets, test defensive depth, and integrate younger players into key roles. For the coaching staff, particularly Brian Walsh in his first season as assistant, it’s another valuable opportunity to implement strategic tweaks before conference play begins.

Home Game vs. Mount St. Mary’s Nov. 25

Just five days later, on Tuesday, November 25, the Buckeyes host Mount St. Mary’s at Value City Arena, closing out their six-game home stretch. This contest represents the final tune-up before Ohio State hits the road for its first away game. By this point, the coaching staff’s adjustments and player rotations will be in clearer focus. Building confidence at home before stepping into hostile environments will be critical for success deeper into the season.

Road Game at Pittsburgh Nov. 28

Ohio State’s first road challenge comes on Friday, November 28, when the team travels to face Pittsburgh. After six straight home games, this matchup provides a test of composure and adaptability in a tough ACC environment. The Panthers are known for their high-energy, physical play, making this a pivotal measuring stick for how the Buckeyes perform outside Columbus. A strong showing here would bolster Ohio State’s résumé and offer reassurance that they can handle pressure ahead of Big Ten competition.

Early Matchups Define Season’s Trajectory

With seven critical non-conference games in November, the Buckeyes’ early schedule—featuring opponents like IU Indy, Purdue Fort Wayne, Appalachian State, Notre Dame, Western Michigan, Mount St. Mary’s, and Pittsburgh—sets the stage for the rest of the season. Under Jake Diebler’s second-year leadership, the team aims to establish consistency, capitalize on its revamped coaching structure, and position itself as a serious contender in the Big Ten. The integration of Brian Walsh in his first season brings fresh energy to the staff, and these early contests will showcase whether the team’s new dynamics can deliver immediate results.