If you’re waking up in Columbus or just tuning in from across the country, your main question is probably the same as everyone else's in Buckeye Nation: what is the time for Ohio State game today? Honestly, with the way the new Big Ten is set up, keeping track of tip-off times feels like a part-time job.
Today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Buckeyes are back at the Schottenstein Center. They are hosting one of the "new" kids on the block, the UCLA Bruins.
The time for Ohio State game today is 1:00 p.m. ET.
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It’s a massive afternoon for Jake Diebler’s squad. They just got back from a brutal West Coast trip where things didn't exactly go to plan, and now they have to defend home court against a UCLA team that has historically given them fits. This isn't some late-night "after dark" special; it’s a premier national window on CBS. If you’re planning your day around it, here is the breakdown of what you actually need to know.
Ohio State vs. UCLA: Kickoff and Broadcast Details
You've probably noticed that the schedule feels a bit more "bicoastal" lately. With UCLA joining the Big Ten, these matchups aren't just non-conference curiosities anymore—they are vital for the standings.
- Tip-off Time: 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
- TV Channel: CBS.
- Radio: Ohio State Radio Network (Paul Keels and Ron Stokes are on the call).
- Location: Value City Arena at the Schottenstein Center, Columbus, OH.
If you’re heading to the Schott, keep in mind that doors usually open 90 minutes before the 1:00 p.m. start. So, aim to be there around 11:30 a.m. if you want to see the warmups.
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Why Today’s Game is Sorta a Big Deal
The Buckeyes are sitting at 11-5 overall and 3-3 in the Big Ten. They’re basically at a crossroads. Last week’s loss to Washington was a tough pill to swallow, especially with the way the second half got away from them.
UCLA is coming in at 12-5. They’ve adapted to the Big Ten’s physical style faster than many expected. They’re currently 4-2 in the conference and look like legitimate contenders.
Honestly, the history here is weirdly balanced. The all-time series is tied 7-7. It’s rare for a non-conference rivalry to be this even over decades, but now that they’re in the same league, the stakes are way higher. The last time UCLA played in Columbus? You have to go all the way back to 1968. That game featured Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar). Today doesn't have a Hall of Fame center of that magnitude, but the Bruce Thornton vs. Skyy Clark matchup is going to be electric.
Key Stats to Watch
The Buckeyes have been shooting the lights out, sitting at nearly 50% from the field. That’s top-tier efficiency. However, they’re facing a Bruins defense that is notoriously stingy, allowing only about 68 points per game. Something has to give.
If Ohio State can get Devin Royal involved early on the glass, they should be fine. He’s been averaging 6.0 rebounds, and the Bruins are surprisingly weak on the boards this year, ranking near the bottom of the country in total rebounds per game.
What About the Rest of the Buckeyes?
While the basketball game is the headliner, it’s a busy day for the university. If you’re a multi-sport fan, you might want to keep an eye on these other events happening today:
- Men’s Swimming & Diving: They have a massive dual meet against Michigan at the McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion. That starts at Noon.
- Women’s Hockey: The No. 2 ranked Buckeyes are on the road against Minnesota State. That one starts at 4:02 p.m. ET (3:02 p.m. local).
- Women’s Gymnastics: They’re competing at Rutgers later tonight.
It’s one of those classic "Scarlet and Gray" Saturdays where you can basically watch sports from noon until midnight.
Football Note: The Season is Done
I’ve seen a few people asking about the football time for Ohio State game today, likely confused because it’s mid-January. Unfortunately, the football season ended for the Buckeyes on December 31. They fell to Miami (FL) 24-14 in the Cotton Bowl, which was a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal.
If you’re looking for your football fix, the National Championship is actually this Monday, January 19, between Miami and Indiana. It’s a bit weird seeing Indiana in the title game, but that’s the 2026 landscape for you.
Actionable Tips for Game Day
If you’re watching from home, make sure you have the Paramount+ app or a live TV streamer like Fubo ready, as CBS games are sometimes regionally restricted on certain platforms.
For those going to the Schottenstein Center, remember the bag policy is strict. Only very small clutches or clear bags are usually allowed. Don't be the person stuck in the security line because your bag is two inches too wide.
Final Checklist for the Ohio State game today:
- Double-check the channel: It's CBS, not BTN or ESPN.
- Set your reminders: 1:00 p.m. sharp.
- Stock up: If you're hosting a watch party, the game should wrap up around 3:15 p.m., just in time for the late-afternoon slate of games.
The Buckeyes need this win to stay in the hunt for a top-four seed in the Big Ten Tournament. Enjoy the game and Go Bucks.