Written by Rich Swerbinsky

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Dials Takes Over, Rallies Buckeyes Back From Four Point Halftime Deficit

Thanks to a big second half led by big man Terence Dials, the Buckeyes defeated the Davidson Wildcats by a score of 70-62. Dials finished with 19 points and 13 rebounds, spearheading a second half Buckeye rally that gave Ohio State control of the game versus the scrappy Wildcats.

The Buckeyes shot the ball terribly in the first half, making just 1-13 attempts from three point range, and shooting just 29% as a team for the half. They trailed at half time 29-25, and hung in the game thanks to their relentless perimeter defense. The Buckeyes were forcing rushed outside shots in an attempt to break out of their month long shooting slump, and it was not working.

Kudos to coach Thad Matta, and whatever he said to the team at the half, because it was a different Buckeye team in the second half. They started making the extra pass, creating easy buckets for Dials inside. Back to back Ron Lewis three pointers gave the Buckeyes a 43-40 lead, which was their first lead since halfway through the first half. They would not relinquish it. Lewis had sixteen second half points for Ohio State and 19 for the game.

The Buckeyes took good care of the ball, committing just five turnovers all game. They played incredible permiter defense throughout. And J.J. Sullinger and Terence Dials did a great job on the glass and converting buckets inside to help preserve the Buckeye lead down the stretch.  Sullinger added 13 points and 13 rebounds, and was key for the Buckeyes on both ends of the floor all afternoon.

The Buckeyes advance to face the winner of this afternoon's game between Georgetown and Northern Iowa.