Ohio State uses solid defense to head to halftime up on Minnesota

Ohio State basketball went into the break up by nine against Minnesota. Defense ruled the first twenty for the Buckeyes.

Ohio State got out to a slow start, but slowly it began to impose its will and went into halftime up 37-28 on the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

The Buckeyes are shooting the ball much better, nailing 11 of 22 shots for a 50% clip from the floor, but it’s been the defensive end that has made the difference. Ohio State held Minnesota to 37 percent shooting, outrebounded the Gophers 22 to 12, and were able to lock down the inside effectiveness of Daniel Oturu.

Surprisingly enough, Kaleb Wesson has yet to register a point. The Buckeyes have used a more liberal approach with its guards to take advantage of a collapsing Gopher defense. Guards C.J. Walker and D.J. Carton led OSU in scoring with eight points apiece. Kyle Young chipped in six, and Duane Washington five.

It’s not all roses though. The Buckeyes were still plagued with turnovers — committing seven in the first half alone. You can bet the Gophers will make a run if the carelessness continues in the second twenty.

For now though, Ohio State has put itself into position to get a much-needed win. Time to take care of business in the second half.