Grande sized effort leads Ohio State over Indiana

It’s been a difficult stretch of games for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Losses continue to pile up as it’s been five straight games without a win for the Scarlet and Gray. The last victory coming on December 16th against the Florida Gators inside of St. John Arena.

This season it’s been all about progress for this new look Ohio State team. The Scarlet and Gray seem to improve as the season wears on, proving themselves against quality competition.

Last weekend, the Buckeyes demonstrated their best shooting effort of the season against No. 4 Maryland, but lost the game 75-69. Looking to build upon that effort, head coach Kevin McGuff and his squad welcomed the Indiana Hoosiers to Value City Arena on Thursday night.

A tough start couldn’t doom Ohio State. The Buckeyes shot 17 percent from the field to begin the game, but the trend didn’t last long. The Scarlet and Gray willed their way back into the game with a strong second quarter performance, led by guard Carmen Grande. The guard served as a catalyst on offense and brought the hosts within four points of the conference leaders heading into halftime.

Head coach Kevin McGuff and the coaching staff put a heavy emphasis on defense during the intermission. The Buckeyes came out of the locker room and forced 20 turnovers with stellar defensive play. This allowed the hosts to keep the game close heading into the final quarter.

The superb defensive play continued as guards Carmen Grande and Janai Grooms played a part in forcing three consecutive turnovers. The sequence ignited the crowd in attendance and propelled the Buckeyes to a 55-50 win.

Story originally posted on ColumbusWired.net