Chris Holtmann says Ohio State players are in a 'really good mindset'

Ohio State head coach Chris Holtmann says that the Buckeyes players are in a really good mindset as the regular season comes to a close.

This comes in what has been a difficult season for the Buckeyes. With just a 5-14 record in conference play, Ohio State knows it’s going to finish in 13th place this regular season. Still, after getting upset wins over Illinois and Maryland, there are visible signs of improvement ahead of the Big Ten Tournament.

“I think they’re in a really good mindset right now and in some ways I’m thinking as a coach, how could I have gotten them in that better mindset earlier?” Chris Holtmann said. “But, I think they’re in a really good mindset right now, Patrick, and understanding that we’re playing quality basketball, better possessions than really we have.”

Chris Holtmann went out of his way to praise Brice Sensabaugh, a four-star freshman according to On3’s industry ranking.

“I think, offensively, these have been as good of games for a guy like Brice that he’s had in maybe all year. Played really quality possessions and when teams have crowded him or jumped his dribble or jumped his post-ups, he’s made the right play. He’s been really really efficient, even though maybe his numbers haven’t been as exaggerated or as big as what they were. I’m just really proud of the growth for him. Now, he’s just got to keep doing it,” Holtmann said.

“But I think those guys, those seniors, were — again, it’s unique when you have guys who’ve just been here for nine months and you wonder what’s senior night really gonna mean for them. That’s a real thought, but for those guys, I do think there was some real pride in wanting to play well.”

Ohio State has one more game left during the regular season, against a tough Michigan State team on Saturday.

Chris Holtmann was incredibly excited after beating Illinois

After the Illinois win, Chris Holtmann was incredibly happy. He was proud of his team and happy to see them smile after the game.

“It’s the best thing about it. It’s the best thing about it. It’s the best thing about it,” Chris Holtmann said.

“You know, it’s that and seeing my wife happy and my daughter. Yeah, yeah. That’s the best thing about it. The best thing about it is seeing those guys smile, seeing them really enjoy, have fun playing today. Enjoy the moment. Enjoy the fun plays that happened in the midst of the game. Like, that’s the best thing about it.”