Picture this: it’s February 21, 2025, and the Buckeyes are in the thick of a so-so season under Jake Diebler, who’s locked in with a five-year deal from last March. Realistically, Ohio State isn’t shopping for a new coach right now—but let’s play “what if” and toss around some names of top coaches who might be on their radar if things went sideways. These are the folks who could bring some fire to Columbus, based on their track records, rumors, and just plain gut feelings.

Coaches Ohio State Fans Might Dream About

Dusty May (Michigan)

Why He’s a Fit: Dusty’s the guy who took Florida Atlantic to the Final Four and nearly landed the Ohio State gig last year before Michigan swooped in. He’s got that fast, fun style—like watching a highlight reel on loop—and he’s from the Midwest (Indiana, baby!). If his first year at Michigan’s a bust, maybe he’d listen to Ohio State calling his name again.

The Vibe: Imagine him pacing the sidelines at the Schottenstein Center, turning Buckeye recruits into a scoring machine. He’s young, hungry, and knows how to win big.

Chances: Slim, unless Michigan’s a total mess. He’s got a shiny new contract, but you never know with these coaching carousel twists.

Sean Miller (Xavier)

Why He’s a Fit: Sean’s a name Ohio State fans have heard before—he was in the mix last year. He’s been killing it at Xavier (well, mostly), and at 56, he’s got that “been there, done that” vibe from his Arizona days. Plus, he’s from the region—Pennsylvania—and knows the Big Ten’s backyard.

The Vibe: He’d bring grit and a knack for landing top recruits. Sure, he hasn’t hit a Final Four yet, but he’s the kind of guy who could get Ohio State back in the spotlight.

Chances: Decent shot if Xavier stumbles. He might just be ready for one last big swing.

Nate Oats (Alabama)

Why He’s a Fit: Nate’s the mad scientist behind Alabama’s rise—fast, smart, and a little wild. Ohio State sniffed around him last year, and with the Buckeyes’ cash and talent pool, he could turn Columbus into a hoops party. He’s locked in down South, but whispers say he’s got an itch for new challenges.

The Vibe: Picture Ohio State flying up and down the court, draining threes like it’s nothing. Nate’s all about winning with swagger.

Chances: Tough pull—he’s got a sweet deal at Alabama—but if he’s restless, Ohio State’s got the juice to tempt him.

Lamont Paris (South Carolina)

Why He’s a Fit: Lamont’s the Ohio kid (born and raised!) who’s turned South Carolina into a legit squad. He knows the Big Ten from his Wisconsin days, and he was a hot name for the Ohio State job last year. If he keeps shining, he’s the kind of guy who could come home.

The Vibe: He’s tough, no-nonsense, and feels like a Buckeye at heart. Perfect for rallying the fanbase and grinding out wins.

Chances: Pretty good if he’s ready to level up. South Carolina’s cool, but Ohio State’s home.

Will Wade (McNeese State)

Why He’s a Fit: Will’s the wild card. He’s a wizard—22-3 at McNeese this year after getting canned at LSU over some NCAA drama. His penalty’s up in 2025, and he’s itching for a big gig. Ohio State’s NIL money and roster could be his playground.

The Vibe: He’s intense, a recruiting beast, and wins wherever he goes. Yeah, he’s got baggage, but the dude’s a baller.

Chances: Solid if Ohio State’s cool with a little risk. He’d jump at it.

Greg McDermott (Creighton)

Why He’s a Fit: Greg’s the steady dad of this group—60 years old, Elite Eight with Creighton, and a name Ohio State floated last year. He’s comfy in Omaha, but a big-time job like this might pull him out of his cozy nest.

The Vibe: He’s calm, runs a smooth offense, and knows how to win. Not flashy, but reliable as heck.

Chances: Maybe a long shot. Depends if he’s still got the fire for a new adventure.

Josh Schertz (Saint Louis)

Why He’s a Fit: Josh had Indiana State buzzing last year (NIT runner-up!) and just jumped to Saint Louis. He’s Midwest through and through, and his teams play fast and fearless—Ohio State fans would eat it up.

The Vibe: Young gun with big ideas. He’d bring energy and a fresh start to Columbus.

Chances: Could happen if he crushes it at Saint Louis and Ohio State comes knocking.

What’s Really Going On

Right now, Jake Diebler’s the man in Columbus. He’s got the Buckeyes at 14-11 (6-8 in Big Ten) as of mid-February 2025—not lighting the world on fire, but not crashing either. His five-year deal means Ohio State’s probably sticking with him for next season unless something crazy happens—like a total collapse or him bolting for another job (unlikely). Still, fans love dreaming about the next big hire, and these names are the ones that’d get tongues wagging.

If the job did open up, Ohio State’s got a type: guys who’ve won big, know the Midwest, or can handle the Big Ten grind. Dusty, Sean, and Nate are the marquee names, but don’t sleep on Lamont’s homecoming vibe or Will’s wild redemption arc. Greg and Josh? They’re the sleeper picks—solid and sneaky good.

So, who’d you pick if you were calling the shots? Me, I’m torn between Nate’s fireworks and Lamont’s Ohio roots. Either way, it’s fun to dream—Buckeye Nation’s always ready for a shake-up when the time’s right!