Ohio State Basketball Recruiting Insights: A Chat with Steve Helwagen

In a recent chat on Bucknuts.com, Steve Helwagen discussed various aspects of Ohio State’s basketball recruiting strategy, player development, and the implications of recent events in the sports world. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key points from the conversation.

The Importance of Player Development

High School Players and College Choices

Helwagen highlighted that high school athletes often prioritize immediate opportunities, especially in basketball. He noted that elite players like Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg would likely be top draft picks regardless of their college choices. However, in football, the focus shifts to development during college, as NFL teams typically evaluate players over a three-year span.

Ohio State’s Recruiting Strategy

Helwagen emphasized that Ohio State can leverage its ability to provide significant playing time to attract five-star recruits. He pointed out that while schools like Kentucky and Duke may have more prestigious reputations, they often have deeper rosters, which can limit playing time for incoming talent. The message for recruits is clear: "You’ll get all the minutes you can play here."

The Landscape of College Basketball

NBA Finals and School Representation

In discussing the recent NBA Finals, Helwagen noted the diverse backgrounds of the players involved. He listed the colleges of the starters, revealing that only one player came from a traditional basketball powerhouse. This observation underscores the idea that players can succeed in the NBA regardless of their college affiliation, making Ohio State a viable option for aspiring athletes.

BTN’s Coverage of Women’s Volleyball

Programming Insights

A question from a user regarding the Big Ten Network (BTN) airing U.S. women’s volleyball games led to an interesting discussion. Helwagen speculated that this might be part of a reciprocal agreement with FOX, allowing BTN to showcase events when FOX’s schedule is full. He acknowledged the Big Ten’s strength in volleyball and suggested that the network might have rationalized the coverage based on the participation of Big Ten athletes.

Updates on Coach McGuff

DUI Incident and University Response

Helwagen addressed concerns regarding Ohio State women’s basketball coach Kevin McGuff, who recently faced a DUI arrest. While he had no specific updates on McGuff’s legal situation, he speculated that the judge may have granted him work driving privileges. Helwagen suggested that any potential suspension from the university would likely occur before the season begins.

The Future of WNBA in Cleveland

Community Reception and Team Viability

A user inquired about the possibility of Cleveland acquiring a WNBA franchise and how it might coexist with the Cavaliers. Helwagen expressed cautious optimism, noting that the league has a few standout players who can draw crowds. However, he emphasized the importance of having star players to build a competitive team. He also referenced previous comments from players about the challenges of playing in Cleveland, highlighting the need for a positive community reception to ensure the franchise’s success.

Conclusion

Steve Helwagen’s insights provide a comprehensive look at the current state of Ohio State basketball recruiting, the implications of player development, and the evolving landscape of women’s sports. As the Buckeyes continue to navigate these challenges, the focus remains on attracting top talent and fostering an environment conducive to success.