2017 NBA Profile: Marc Loving (Ohio State Buckeyes)

Marc Loving has been a rock to the Ohio State men’s basketball program since he arrived on campus in the summer of 2013. After four successful seasons with the Buckeyes, he now is trying to pursue a career in the NBA.

Loving was a consistent player in his four seasons under former head coach Thad Matta, with his best season coming in his junior year. Playing in a career-high 34 minutes per game, he averaged 14 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. His senior season saw a slight dip in production, but he was still managed 12.By season’s end, 3 points and 4.7 rebounds per game.

A native of Toledo, Ohio, the 6-8 forward has a lot to offer NBA teams should he get drafted.

Strengths:

Loving’s biggest strength is his shooting ability. Over the course of his four years at Ohio State, he became a catch-and-shoot player that his teammates could always rely on. A large chunk of Loving’s points came on outside shots in his career, and last year, he wound up shooting nine more three-point shots than two-point shots.

Loving has a 7-foot-1 ¹⁄₂ wingspan, which is key for forwards on all levels. He especially utilizes his wingspan on the defensive end; which gives him the ability to block shots, play near the rim, and defend opposing wings.

With his wingspan and shooting ability, he could be a coveted ‘3-and-D’ prospect in the upcoming draft.

Weaknesses:

For his size and shooting ability, Loving should be more consistent on the court. His numbers from his junior to his senior year are down, which is not a good sign for a player that wants to make it to the next level.

Throughout his Buckeyes’ career, Loving struggled with turnovers and a lack of making plays off the dribble. In fact, last season he managed to turn the ball over 89 times—or 2.8 per game—a shocking number for a player who isn’t ball dominant.

Loving has also had some off-the-court issues. Per Columbus Wired, he was suspended for three games during the 2014-2015 season due to multiple violations of the team’s marijuana policy. At the time, the suspension seriously affected his spot in the rotation and could also play a factor in the NBA Draft.

Potential Best Fit:

Loving’s best fit would be to any team that needs a player to come off the bench and shoot. However, even if he does hear his name called, he will need time in the NBA G-League to improve on his all-around game.

Overall:

Marc Loving will most likely not be drafted. Instead, a spot in the G-League or playing abroad for a year could help him develop. His sharp-shooting is a plus, but his stats dropping in his senior year and inconsistency as a player leave major questions and risks for potential NBA teams.

If Loving improves this upcoming season, he may have a chance to make an NBA roster in 2018-2019.