Diebler leads Ohio State by Presbyterian

Published 3:41 am Thursday, December 17, 2009

COLUMBUS — Jon Diebler scored 12 points, including two 3-pointers in a 14-0 run to open the game, to help No. 18 Ohio State beat Presbyterian 78-48 on Wednesday night.

It was the Buckeyes’ first home game without injured star Evan Turner.

David Lighty led Ohio State (8-2) with 20 points, while William Buford added 11 and Dallas Lauderdale 10.

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Walt Allen had 13 points for the Blue Hose (2-9), who were paid $75,000 to bring six freshmen and no seniors in for the lopsided loss.

Turner, who was averaging a double-double, broke two bones in his lower back on Dec. 5 after his hands slipped off the rim during a dunk and he fell to the court. He sat on the bench in street clothes, cheering and joining in the huddles.

Turner, who was averaging 18.5 points, 11.4 rebounds and 6.0 assists, is expected to miss up to 8 weeks, although he hopes to return in just over half of that.

Ohio State lost 74-66 at No. 22 Butler on Saturday in its first game since Turner was sidelined.

This game was decided in the opening minutes, with Presbyterian failing to even hit the rim let along make a basket in the opening 3:20.