Executive Director Message
The Basketball Coaches Association recently met with the Executive Director of the OHSAA, Doug Ute, to discuss several important topics regarding the state basketball tournament, officiating procedures, tournament structure, and future considerations for high school basketball in Ohio. Much of the discussion centered around feedback gathered through the state tournament survey and ways to continue improving the overall tournament experience for schools, coaches, players, and fans.
It was confirmed that Dayton will continue to serve as the primary site for the state basketball tournament. Due to NCAA tournament setup requirements, the Girls State Tournament can only be conducted Thursday through Saturday, while the Boys State Tournament will continue to run from Thursday evening through Sunday. Discussion also took place regarding the possibility of continuing to us Butler High School for Girls State tournament. Coaches spoke positively about the atmosphere and environment at the facility; however, concerns were raised regarding the perception of the venue not being a college arena.
Additional conversation focused on tournament experiences at Wright State University and University of Dayton. Wright State received feedback concerning ticketing procedures, fan seating locations, and the convenience of concession stands. There is consideration being given to involving local booster clubs to assist with concessions and improve the overall experience. Several coaches indicated that the atmosphere and organization at Wright State currently do not match the experience provided at the University of Dayton. Conversely, feedback regarding the University of Dayton was overwhelmingly positive, with coaches describing the tournament as professionally managed and well organized. The OHSAA also indicated that additional information regarding hotels and restaurant options near Wright State will be distributed, noting that the area offers more accommodations and dining opportunities than many coaches may realize.
The possibility of moving the state tournament to Columbus was also discussed. However, concerns were expressed regarding scheduling conflicts with Ohio State University potentially hosting NCAA women’s tournament games or hockey events. Coaches were also informed that Spectrum continues to provide game film of the state finals approximately three weeks following the conclusion of the tournament.
Regional tournament site assignments and the possibility of utilizing TBA (To Be Announced) regional locations generated significant discussion. OHSAA representatives expressed concerns regarding excessive travel times for participating schools. Several coaches commented that they preferred knowing regional locations in advance and generally did not favor the use of TBA sites.
Officiating procedures were another major topic of discussion. This marked the first year since moving away from the myOHSAA system that coaches were reintroduced into the selection process for tournament officials. Coaches were asked to submit a list of 5 to 15 officials to the OHSAA. Each appearance on a submitted list counts as one point toward consideration for tournament assignments. Official selection is determined through a formula utilizing input from four groups: coaches, athletic directors, league assigners, and official administrators. It was also noted that officials are not permitted to work state finals in consecutive years. Additionally, all state tournament officials must complete a questionnaire that includes disclosure of any conflicts of interest related to potential assignments.
The current state tournament game times are expected to remain unchanged moving forward. Coaches also discussed the need to better educate spectators that one semifinal ticket provides admission for both semifinal games. OHSAA continues to explore the possibility of scheduling all divisions on back-to-back tournament days in the future. Tournament rotation was also reviewed, with Division I remaining permanently as the final game of the tournament schedule while the remaining divisions rotate annually.
Discussion also took place regarding tournament rankings and the use of MaxPreps data. It was stated that the decision to use MaxPreps RPI or MaxPreps Rankings rests with the coaches association.
The topic of implementing a shot clock in Ohio high school basketball was also addressed. At this time, the OHSAA Board is not prepared to make a motion regarding a statewide vote on the shot clock. Coaches were encouraged to communicate directly with athletic directors within their districts to express their opinions on the matter.
Additional discussion centered on the possibility of separating public and private schools for tournament competition, with some indicating that such changes could potentially occur in the future. Coaches were also informed that basketball division assignments are expected to be approved during the June Board of Directors meeting.
Concerns were raised regarding the use of brand-new basketballs during regional tournament competition. In response, OHSAA indicated that coaches may bring a game ball to exchange for the new tournament basketball if desired.
Finally, district-specific concerns were discussed. Representatives from the Northwest District indicated that the pod system used during tournament play was viewed as a positive step forward, although additional discussions regarding alternative tournament options are expected with the Northwest District Board. Representatives from the Southeast District continued to express concerns regarding being the only region in the state utilizing NCAA-style seeding procedures for tournament play.
Mentorship Program
The OHSBCA will be offering an exciting opportunity designed specifically for first- and second-year head basketball coaches. A Mentorship Program that will provide invaluable professional development, mentorship, and resources to help support new head coaches in their transition into leadership.
Understanding the unique challenges that come with stepping into a head coaching role, this program connects new coaches with experienced mentors who can provide guidance, insight, and support throughout the season. Participants will also gain access to a variety of coaching resources aimed at enhancing their effectiveness both on and off the court.
The program benefits include:
* A complimentary OHSBCA membership for the 2026-2027 season, valued at $25.00
* A waived registration fee for the 2026 OHSBCA Clinic, valued at $105.00
* Assignment of an experienced mentor who can offer advice and support
* Access to OHSBCA’s online coaching resources, including training materials and best practices
* Scheduled in-person and Zoom meetings to facilitate discussions, share strategies, and provide ongoing mentorship
* Additional gifts and coaching-related resources provided by the OHSBCA
Participation in this program is limited to 20 applicants, and the registration deadline is July 10, 2026. The cost to enroll is $150.00.
We believe this program is a tremendous opportunity for new head basketball coaches to build their knowledge, expand their coaching network, and gain the confidence needed to lead a successful program. If you have any questions or would like to register a coach, please reach out to ohsbcapublicrelations@gmail.com. Thank you for your time and for your continued dedication to developing coaches and student-athletes.
OHSBCA Coaches Clinic
The Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association (OHSBCA) is pleased to announce that the 2026 OHSBCA Clinic will be held at the Frank Murphy Convocation Center, located on the campus of St. Charles Preparatory School in Columbus, Ohio. St. Charles is a four-year Catholic college preparatory school founded in 1923. Originally established as a seminary, the school new serves as an all-male high school within the Catholic Diocese of Columbus, with a strong reputation for academic and athletic excellence.
Mike Ryan, Head Basketball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director at St. Charles, expressed the school’s enthusiasm, “we are thrilled to host the OHSBCA Clinic in 2026. St. Charles is eager to welcome coaches from across the state to our exceptional facilities, providing a dynamic setting for learning and collaboration. With a tradition of excellence, both academically and athletically, we are proud to support the growth of high school basketball in Ohio. We look forward to offering a memorable experience for all attendees and contributing to the success of the OHSBCA Clinic.”
The Frank Murphy Convocation Center, which opened in 2023, is a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance both athletic performance and fan experience. It features seating for 1,300, three video boards, and a dropdown scoreboard, making it an ideal venue for the clinic.
“We are excited to partner with St. Charles Preparatory School and host the 2026 OHSBCA Clinic at the impressive Frank Murphy Convocation Center,” said Adam Hall, OHSBCA Clinic Director. “This state-of-the-art facility will provide an exceptional environment for learning and networking. St. Charles has a long-standing tradition of excellence, both academically and athletically, and we’re grateful for their commitment to supporting high school basketball in Ohio. We’re confident that this clinic will be a fantastic experience for coaches, helping to foster collaboration and growth across our basketball community.
The 2026 OHSBCA Clinic will be held September 20th & 21st.
Nominations for OHSBCA Hall of Fame
Any coach can nominate a worthy candidate for the OHSBCA Hall of Fame. From time to time, questions are raised why coach so and so is not in the Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. Sometimes it is just a simple fact that the coach has not been nominated for this honor.
Any coach can nominate a candidate for the Hall of Fame. Nomination Forms can be obtained by contacting chairperson Greg Nossaman of Olentangy Liberty or by downloading the form from our OHSBCA web site (oh.nhsbca.org). Complete the requested information and mail to:
Greg Nossaman
Olentangy Liberty High School
Phone: 740-657-4209
Email: greg_nossaman@olsd.us
Let’s Honor “ALL” our great coaches!
Century Award
OHSBCA members who achieve Century Award status (100-200-300-400-500-600-700 wins) during the season should complete the Century Award Form located on the OHSBCA website (oh.nhsbca.org, click on Forms, then click forms online, and click the Century Award).
* Varsity coaches may count their varsity wins in Ohio only
* Boys and Girls wins may be combined for total wins.
* Junior Varsity, Freshmen, and Junior High coaches may count their wins at any level towards their totals
Questions contact:
Joe Balogh, Awards Director
Phone: 419-512-0164
Email: joe.balogh@ohiobkcoaches.com
DUE SEPTEMBER 10, 2026
Bob Arnzen Award
The Bob Arnzen Award is awarded to coaches who have devoted 20 consecutive years or more service to the same school at any level and must be an active member of the OHSBCA for the past five years. Recipients will receive a plaque at halftime of their respective state tournaments.
If you qualify for the 2025-26 school year, please submit a complete the online application at the OHSBCA website (oh.nhsbca.org) and click on forms. Select the Bob Arnzen Award form:
Joe Balogh, Awards Director
Phone: 419-512-0164
Email: joe.balogh@ohiobkcoaches.com
DUE SEPTEMBER 10, 2026