Ohio State, BYU Open Season in Salt Lake City

The Buckeyes and Cougars face off in a high-stakes season opener following successful previous campaigns.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Basketball

Ohio State, BYU Open Season in Salt Lake City

Live Poll

Should local college basketball programs prioritize tournament success above all other team goals?

Ohio State and BYU tip off their college basketball season in Salt Lake City. Both programs enter the matchup looking to build on recent records and improve their postseason performance.

Why it matters

The game serves as a critical early-season test for both teams as they aim to advance beyond the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Coaching staffs are focused on refining team performance to exceed their previous results.

Ohio State completed its 2025-26 campaign with a 12-8 conference record, while BYU finished at 9-9 in conference play. Both teams are looking to leverage key returners who averaged double-digit scoring last season.

The players

John Mobley Jr.

He is a key contributor for the Buckeyes who averaged 15.7 points per game last season.

Ohio State

The collegiate basketball program finished the previous season with a 21-13 overall record.

BYU

The university basketball team competes in Salt Lake City and recently finished with 26 wins in the 2024-25 season.

The details

The matchup follows recent seasons where BYU reached 26 wins and Ohio State maintained a winning record. Ohio State player John Mobley Jr., who averaged 15.7 points per game last season, is expected to be ready to play after suffering an ankle injury on October 25.

2024-25 season: BYU finished with 26 wins and an appearance in the Sweet 16.
October 25, 2026: John Mobley Jr. injured his ankle during a game against Butler.
October 26, 2026: BYU and Ohio State meet in Salt Lake City for their season opener.

Basketball
Nov. 3
Utah Edges Long Beach State 66-63 in Opener
Basketball
Oct. 27
Point Guard Jamaal McKnight Commits to Utah Utes
Football
Nov. 2
Utah Ruled Out Obot for Season

Season Trajectory

Both programs are attempting to establish momentum that carries them beyond the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. This early matchup against a high-caliber opponent will likely influence their path toward the postseason.

The availability of John Mobley Jr. remains a primary factor for the Buckeyes' offensive rotation in this opening game. Fans should monitor his playing time after the ankle injury reported just one day prior to tip-off.

The takeaway

Early season non-conference matchups provide valuable data for coaches to adjust rotations before league play begins. Teams often use these games to test depth and player fitness against high-level opponents.