EJ Liddell addresses future, sting of early March Madness exit following loss to Villanova

Ohio State’s trip to the NCAA Tournament came to an end Sunday, losing in the second round to 2-seed Villanova.

After trailing by 11 points at halftime, the Buckeyes came alive and cut deep into Villanova’s lead. Unfortunately, the Wildcats woke up and were able to put away Ohio State down the stretch.

In the loss, E.J. Liddell posted 17 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals for the Buckeyes. Malaki Branham added 23 points but no other Ohio State player finished with more than 6 points as the Buckeyes shot 7-for-22 from 3-point range.

After the loss, Liddell admitted feelings of regret that he was unable to do more for the Buckeyes. He also said this loss especially stings and the team is really hurting and has not started thinking through the process of what’s next in terms of his future.

#Buckeyes forward E.J. Liddell, fighting back tears: “I’m really hurting inside. I wish I could’ve done more to get it done. This group of guys was really determined. We fought through a lot … I gave it my all this year. I wish I could’ve done a little more though.”

— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) March 20, 2022

E.J. Liddell on his future: “I haven’t really thought about that process yet. This one stings. I haven’t thought about it. I didn’t want it to happen, ever.”

— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) March 20, 2022

Liddell has averaged 14.1 points per game over 3 seasons with the Buckeyes, including averaging 19.5 points per game while shooting 49% from the floor in 2021-22. Getting him back in Columbus for another year would be a huge lift. Liddell will have to decide between another season with the Buckeyes or entering the NBA Draft down the road.