Jake Diebler is officially the head coach at Ohio State

After leading the previously 14-11 Buckeyes to a 6-2 finish and NIT appearance, Jake Diebler has gone from interim head coach to the real thing. Diebler has been on the Ohio State staff since 2019 and also had a previous stint working under Thad Matta from 2013-16.

“Jake Diebler possesses all of the characteristics we were seeking as we conducted a very comprehensive and thorough search for a new head coach,” said Ross Bjork, the soon-to-be AD at Ohio State. “Those include coaching ability, passion, energy, program knowledge, character, integrity and ties to Ohio. As an Ohio native, the son of a longtime Ohio high school coach and with deep connections to Ohio State, Jake knows what it takes to lead this program on a championship course.”

Diebler played collegiately at Valparaiso and has spent the last 15 years coaching at either Ohio State or his alma mater. He initially came to Columbus in 2013 on a recommendation from his younger brother, Jon Diebler, who played at OSU from 2007-11. Both Dieblers were star players at Upper Sandusky HS (OH), where they were coached by their father, Keith.

“It’s a blessing and a privilege to serve this program and I’m excited for this opportunity,” Diebler said. “I’d like to thank Ross Bjork and President Carter for believing in me and the vision that I have moving forward. Ohio State basketball is special and means so much to me and my family. I look forward to serving the entire Ohio State basketball family as best as I possibly can.”

OSU parted ways with former head coach Chris Holtmann in February after 6+ years at the helm. The Buckeyes missed the NCAA Tournament in 2023 and 2024 and have not moved past the Round of 32 since 2013.

credit to Ohio State Athletics for the image