In a surprising move, Ohio State has decided to part ways with Chris Holtmann, ending his tenure as the Buckeyes' men's basketball coach. The announcement was made by the school on Wednesday, with associate head coach Jake Diebler stepping in as the team's interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

Holtmann, who had been with Ohio State for nearly seven seasons, had four years left on his contract, which was set to run through the 2027-28 season. The university will now owe him over $14 million in guaranteed salary, according to sources.

Gene Smith, the outgoing Ohio State athletics director, expressed his appreciation for Holtmann's leadership and the esteemed program he ran during his time in Columbus. Smith also thanked Holtmann and his wife, Lori, for their dedicated service to the university.

The decision to part ways with Holtmann comes as the Buckeyes have struggled on the court, losing nine out of their last eleven games. Their recent defeat at the hands of Wisconsin dropped their Big Ten record to 4-10, and their overall record stands at 14-11.

Holtmann's coaching career had promising beginnings, leading Butler to three consecutive NCAA tournaments before his appointment at Ohio State in 2017. In his first year with the Buckeyes, Holtmann achieved a commendable record of 25-9 (15-3 in the Big Ten), earning back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances and advancing in both tournaments.

However, Ohio State's performance took a significant downturn last season, finishing with a disappointing 16-19 overall record and a 5-15 record in the Big Ten. Despite a promising start to this season with a 12-2 record, the Buckeyes have struggled and currently find themselves near the bottom of the Big Ten standings.

The team's difficulties on the road and poor performance in the month of January have been well-documented. Ohio State has not secured a road victory since January 1, 2023, and they have posted a lackluster 18-29 record in January over the past six seasons.

Ross Bjork, the newly appointed Ohio State athletic director, will now lead the search for Holtmann's replacement. Although Bjork does not officially begin his role until July, he will assume an interim position on March 1 as a senior advisor to Smith.

Ohio State fans and basketball enthusiasts alike will eagerly await news of the university's new coaching selection and hope for a revitalized Buckeyes team in the seasons to come.