Except for a couple years between Terrance Dials and Dallas Lauderdale, the past decade has seen a bruiser at the Power Forward position for the Buckeyes. Offense was not their prowess (except for Dials’ senior year) nor their preference. Lauderdale, with his long arms and barrel chest would rather knock you over than fill up the offensive stat sheet. Evan Ravenel, this year’s only “power forward” on the 2012-2013 Ohio State Buckeye Basketball team will continue the tradition of defense-first, hard-nose Power Forwards.
Evan Ravenel (6′ 8″ 250 lbs. SR; Tampa, Florida) is the only senior on this year’s basketball team. Last year, he averaged 3.4 points per game and 2.2 rebounds per game and played a pivotal role in more than one game last year. He played admirably in Jared Sullinger’s absence the first time the Buckeyes played Kansas back in December and he played big minutes against Michigan State (in which William Buford hit a last second shot to win the game). He isn’t going to wow you with his offensive game but Ravenel will impress with his effort and toughness.
While Matta still has not finalized his starting line-up, it is looking more and more like Ravenel will be on of the first players off of Matta’s bench. Right now, the assumption is that Deshaun Thomas will start on the floor at the “four” position. I think this is a good situation. Ravenel is experienced and will be able to support the younger players coming off the bench with him. He will also be able to come in to a game at a crucial moment and provide a calming influence, bringing stability to the second unit and providing needed leadership to the floor. Along with that, Matta can (and probably will) use Ravenel situationally at the Center position.
Ravenel has seen quite a bit of success as a part of a Final Four team and a #1 team. His defense and mental toughness will be an asset for Thad Matta and the Buckeyes. Don’t look for flash from Evan. Just expect solid play and strong efforts, night-in, night-out.
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