Across the first 31 minutes of action against Oakland, Ohio State led for a total of 61 seconds.
The Golden Grizzlies didn't come into Value City Arena intimidated and showcased as much with staunch defense and a strong first-half shooting performance from distance.
To stave off a heart-crushing season-opening upset, the Buckeyes needed someone to take charge. That man was Roddy Gayle Jr.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | FINAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| OHIO STATE | 34 | 45 | 79 |
| OAKLAND | 35 | 38 | 73 |
With Ohio State trailing 52-47, Gayle embarked on a personal 9-0 run to give the Buckeyes a lead they never relinquished, but that didn't mean there weren't further tense moments.