It is Friday, January 16, 2026, and if you're like most folks in Columbus or anywhere across Buckeye Nation, your first thought this morning was probably about the schedule. You need to know exactly when to clear the couch. You've got the jersey ready. But wait—which "Buckeye game" are we actually talking about?
Buckeye fans are lucky and cursed at the same time. There is almost always something happening. Today is no different. We aren't in football season anymore, obviously, but the winter slate is absolutely packed. If you came here looking for the football kickoff, you’re about eight months early for the Ball State opener in September.
Right now, it's all about the ice and the hardwood.
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What time is the Buckeye game today for hockey and hoops?
If you are looking for the marquee matchup for the men’s basketball team, you actually have to wait until tomorrow. The Buckeyes are hosting UCLA at the Schottenstein Center on Saturday, January 17, at 1:00 PM EST. That’s going to be a massive Big Ten clash, especially with the Bruins being a relatively new addition to the conference travel schedule.
But don't click away yet. There is plenty of live action happening today, January 16.
Women’s Ice Hockey: The Big One in Mankato
The No. 2 ranked Ohio State women's hockey team is on the road today. They are facing off against No. 13 Minnesota State. This isn't just a "check the box" game; the Buckeyes are 19-3-0 and trying to keep that momentum rolling in the WCHA.
- Game Time: 7:02 PM EST (6:02 PM local time in Mankato).
- Where to Watch: B1G+.
- The Vibe: Mankato is a tough place to play, but this Buckeyes squad is relentless.
Men’s Volleyball: The Long Beach State Challenge
Coming off a tough match against George Mason yesterday, the No. 13 Ohio State men’s volleyball team is back at it today at the Covelli Center.
- Game Time: 1:00 PM EST.
- Opponent: No. 2 Long Beach State.
- The Stakes: This is a huge early-season test against one of the best programs in the country. If you're in Columbus, getting over to the Covelli Center for a 1 PM start is a great way to spend a Friday afternoon.
Why the UCLA game tomorrow is the one everyone is talking about
I know, you asked about today. But honestly, the buzz in the city is all about Saturday’s basketball game. Ohio State is currently 11-5 and 3-3 in the Big Ten. They really need this win against UCLA to stay in the upper half of the standings.
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UCLA is coming in hot. Trent Perry just dropped 30 points against Penn State, and he’s looking like a problem for any defense. The Buckeyes are 7-2 at home this year, though. Bruce Thornton has been a rock, averaging over 20 points in his last ten outings.
If you're planning your weekend around what time is the Buckeye game today, just make sure you don't confuse the Friday hockey puck drop with the Saturday basketball tip-off.
Watching the Buckeyes: A few pro tips
Getting the right stream is half the battle these days. For the women's hockey game tonight, you’re going to need a B1G+ subscription. It’s annoying to have so many different apps, I get it. But for the olympic sports and hockey, it’s basically mandatory.
For the basketball game tomorrow at 1:00 PM, that one is much easier to find on standard cable. Check your local listings for the Big Ten Network or whichever major affiliate picked it up in your region.
Actionable Steps for Buckeye Fans Today
- Download the B1G+ App: If you want to see the No. 2 women's hockey team take on Minnesota State at 7:02 PM, get your login sorted now.
- Check the Covelli Center Tickets: The men's volleyball game starts at 1:00 PM today. If you're near campus, tickets for volleyball are usually affordable and the atmosphere is surprisingly intense.
- Set the Saturday Alarm: If you're heading to the Schott tomorrow for the 1 PM basketball game against UCLA, give yourself an extra 45 minutes. Traffic on Lane Avenue is always a nightmare when a big-name opponent like UCLA is in town.
- Watch the Injury Report: Keep an eye on the status of the basketball rotations. With the Big Ten season in full swing, depth is starting to matter more than ever.
The Buckeyes are active, even if the football pads are put away for the season. Whether it's on the ice in Minnesota or on the court in Columbus, there's plenty to keep track of today.