In an interview with 1070 The Fan’s Dan Dakich, Ohio State coach Thad Matta was asked if Jared Sullinger will return to the Buckeyes next season.

“I think he will come back," said Matta. "I’m hoping and I think Jared knows he has some work to do now. When the season ends we can look at all his options but he’s one of those kids that enjoy college and he knows talking with our former players that are in the NBA what it’s all about at the next level. It’s a different world. I definitely have always been this way with guys, I want wants best for them so whatever that is we’ll point them in the right direction.”

A freshman, Sullinger averages 17.3 points and 9.7 rebounds for the No. 1-ranked Buckeyes, who are 29-2 overall and 16-2 in the Big Ten.