Jake Diebler Locked In as Ohio State Men’s Basketball Head Coach with Five-Year Agreement

Columbus, OH – In a major move that signals the beginning of a new era, Ohio State University has officially named Jake Diebler the permanent head coach of its men’s basketball program, offering him a five-year contract that reflects the university’s faith in his leadership and vision.

The deal, finalized after weeks of speculation, brings clarity to the Buckeyes’ coaching situation following the mid-season departure of former head coach Chris Holtmann. Diebler, who stepped in as interim coach in February, has now been rewarded for his efforts and results during that brief but pivotal stretch.

Jake Diebler took the reins under challenging circumstances. After a rocky season that saw Ohio State underperform in Big Ten play, Diebler’s appointment as interim head coach was met with cautious optimism. But that optimism quickly turned into excitement. In just a few weeks, Diebler revitalized the team’s energy, guided the Buckeyes to key wins down the stretch, and brought a new sense of belief to the locker room.

Ohio State finished the regular season on a high note, showing grit and cohesion not seen earlier in the year. The Buckeyes’ resurgence under Diebler included notable wins over ranked opponents and a spirited Big Ten Tournament performance that re-engaged fans and alumni. His ability to unify the squad and deliver tangible results in a short span played a crucial role in the university’s decision to remove the interim tag.

Diebler is far from a stranger to Buckeye basketball. A native of Upper Sandusky, Ohio, and the son of a legendary high school coach, Jake has deep basketball roots within the state. He previously served as an assistant under Chris Holtmann and had coaching stints at Vanderbilt and Valparaiso. His brother, Jon Diebler, is a revered figure in Ohio State hoops history, having starred for the Buckeyes from 2007 to 2011.

Those familial and institutional ties have made Jake Diebler an especially popular figure among the fan base. He understands the culture, the expectations, and the pride associated with wearing scarlet and gray — and now, he has the opportunity to shape the program in his own image.

Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith praised Diebler’s leadership, noting that his poise, basketball IQ, and ability to connect with players stood out during the search process.

Jake has earned this opportunity not just through results, but through the way he inspires and leads,” said Smith in a statement. “He brings integrity, passion, and a relentless work ethic that aligns with what we value in Buckeye athletics.”

The five-year contract reportedly includes performance incentives and a competitive salary package, underlining the university’s long-term commitment. Smith added that the school evaluated external candidates but ultimately determined that Diebler was the right person to lead the program forward.

Throughout the transition period, players rallied behind Diebler. Several team members expressed public support for their interim coach, citing his open communication, motivational style, and basketball savvy.

Sophomore guard Bruce Thornton said in March, “Coach Diebler really believes in us. You can feel it every day in practice. He trusts us, and we trust him.”

That mutual respect has helped Diebler build a foundation for the future. With continuity in the coaching staff and trust within the locker room, the Buckeyes hope to regain their status as a national contender sooner rather than later.

One of Diebler’s first major tasks will be solidifying the 2025 recruiting class and retaining key players from the current roster amid increased transfer portal movement across college basketball. Known as a strong recruiter with deep ties in the Midwest, Diebler has already begun reaching out to high school prospects and transfers.

He’ll also have to build a coaching staff that can match his energy and vision, likely blending continuity with fresh perspectives. Early signs suggest that Diebler wants to construct a team that plays fast, defends with tenacity, and reflects the toughness of its head coach.

Ohio State fans, many of whom had grown restless during the waning days of the Holtmann era, have embraced Diebler’s promotion with enthusiasm. The Buckeye faithful have taken to social media in droves, praising the decision as one that brings passion and authenticity back to the program.

As the program moves into the offseason, Diebler’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for Ohio State basketball. After years of solid but unspectacular seasons under Holtmann, the Buckeyes are hoping for a return to national prominence — and Jake Diebler will be the one steering the ship.