COLUMBUS — Ohio State men's basketball returns to the Schottenstein Center Sunday afternoon for its final exhibition before the 2026-27 regular season. The Buckeyes host Butler at 2 p.m., looking to build some momentum before opening the season against BYU on November 2.

Head coach Jake Diebler's team is coming off a 79-68 exhibition loss to Cincinnati on October 7. The Buckeyes also participated in a closed-door scrimmage at Louisville last weekend, reportedly losing by nine points. Sunday's matchup provides another opportunity to evaluate the team's progress, develop chemistry, and work out some of the issues before the games begin counting.

Butler enters the matchup under new head coach Ronald Nored, having split its first two exhibitions. The Bulldogs lost to Indiana, 96-68, before defeating Indiana State, 81-74. Like Ohio State, Butler will use Sunday's contest to evaluate its roster and prepare for the regular season.

For the Buckeyes, the focus will be on improving defensively while continuing to develop their offensive chemistry. John Mobley Jr. returns as one of the team's primary scoring threats, while sophomore Amare Bynum is expected to take on a larger role after finishing last season strong.

Thad Matta Returns to Columbus

Sunday's game will also feature a special tribute to former Ohio State head coach Thad Matta, who retired following the 2025-26 season.

Matta coached the Buckeyes from 2004 through 2017, becoming the winningest coach in program history with 337 victories. During his time in Columbus, he led Ohio State to five Big Ten regular-season championships, four Big Ten Tournament titles, and two Final Four appearances.

He later returned to Butler, where he had previously coached for one season before taking the Xavier job in 2001. His final coaching stint with the Bulldogs concluded last season, bringing an end to a 21-season head coaching career.

Matta will be honored at halftime Sunday, giving Ohio State fans an opportunity to recognize one of the most successful coaches, and best human beings in school history.

Game Information