Jake Diebler addresses Ohio State's NCAA Tournament resume after loss to Iowa

Ohio State was eliminated from the Big Ten Tournament in the first round on Wednesday after falling to Iowa 77-70. At 17-15 overall, the Buckeyes currently sit as Joe Lunardi’s projected second team out of the NCAA Tournament if the Big Dance started today.

After the game, Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler discussed the Buckeyes’ March Madness resume. He said regardless of the committee’s decision, he was proud of his team for sticking together throughout an up-and-down season. Some of that Diebler attributed to youth and inexperience on his roster in tight games.

“I think those are probably the moments that I reflect on,” Diebler said. “I think, aside from a couple halves in the nonconference against a tough schedule we played and certainly for a portion of that Northwestern game, we played really tough and hard all season long. It just at times toughness and playing hard isn’t quite enough. You’ve got to execute. Attention to detail becomes critical.

“I thought we got a lot better with that as the year went on, and our guys deserve a lot of credit for that. It’s why we’re in this position headed into today and beyond. There will be a time to really reflect back, but I think overall I’m proud of just how this team has stuck together and overcome a lot. This team’s overcome a lot.”

Diebler concluded by saying that most teams would have folded facing similar adversity. Instead, there’s still an opportunity for them to make it to the postseason.

The only issue for Ohio State is that, by Lunardi’s projections, their fate when it comes to making the NCAA Tournament is no longer in their hands. If they don’t make the field, it’s possible they could end up being invited to the NIT. That remains to be seen, however.

Ohio State finishes its NCAA Tournament resume with a 6-11 record against Quad 1 opponents. Those victories include wins over Texas, Kentucky, Purdue, Penn State, Maryland and USC. However, their arguement is hurt by having a 3-4 record against Quad 2 opponents. The Buckeyes are 8-0 in all other games.

The Buckeyes will have to wait and hear their fate along with the rest of the country on Selection Sunday after the conclusion of all conference tournaments across the country. The bracket is set to be revealed on Sunday, March 16 at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN.