Ohio State University’s women’s basketball head coach, Kevin McGuff, was charged with operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) on May 6, 2025, following an incident in Dublin, Ohio. According to a Dublin Police report obtained by NBC4, McGuff allegedly struck several curbs and drove through a residential lawn, prompting a witness to alert authorities. The arrest, which has sparked significant attention, raises questions about McGuff’s future with the Buckeyes and the broader implications for the Ohio State athletics program.
The incident occurred on Tara Hill Drive, where police responded to reports of erratic driving. The responding officer noted McGuff’s vehicle was parked partially in his yard, and he struggled with basic tasks, such as rolling down his window. McGuff exhibited signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol, slow responses to questions, and poor performance on field sobriety tests. The police report detailed that McGuff failed multiple standardized tests and refused a breath sample, leading to his arrest for OVI, a first-degree misdemeanor under Dublin city code. He was released to his wife, Letitia Bowen, after processing.
McGuff, 55, has been a prominent figure in college basketball since taking the helm of Ohio State’s women’s team in 2013. With a 224-109 record over 12 seasons, he has led the Buckeyes to eight NCAA Tournament appearances, four Big Ten regular-season titles, and a 2018 Big Ten Tournament championship. In 2024, McGuff earned Big Ten Coach of the Year honors, underscoring his success in building a competitive program. His recent arrest, however, casts a shadow over these accomplishments and has drawn scrutiny from fans and media alike.
The Ohio State Department of Athletics issued a brief statement acknowledging the arrest and stating that it is “monitoring the situation closely.” No further details were provided regarding potential disciplinary actions or McGuff’s status with the team. The lack of immediate comment from McGuff or his representatives has fueled speculation about the incident’s impact on his coaching tenure, especially given the high-profile nature of his role.
This incident is not the first time a high-profile college sports figure has faced legal trouble, but it presents unique challenges for Ohio State. McGuff’s program is a cornerstone of the university’s athletic identity, and his leadership has been instrumental in attracting top talent, such as Jacy Sheldon and Celeste Taylor, both of whom were drafted into the WNBA. The arrest could affect team morale, recruiting efforts, and public perception of the program, particularly as the Buckeyes prepare for the 2025-26 season.
As the legal process unfolds, McGuff’s case will likely remain a focal point in Columbus. The Dublin Mayor’s Court will handle the OVI charge, and any penalties—such as fines, license suspension, or community service—could further complicate his professional responsibilities. For now, the Ohio State community awaits clarity on how this incident will shape the future of its women’s basketball program.
