WBK Sleeper Team of the Month: Ohio State
It is a great time to be a fan of women's college basketball. Superstar tandems like MiLaysia Fulwiley, Hannah Hidalgo, JuJu Watkins, and Paige Bueckers are lighting up the court. The level of competition has reached new heights, with top-25 matchups frequently producing instant classics. One team making a strong case for a deep postseason run is Ohio State.
Ohio State on the Rise
What a time to be a Buckeye! Ohio State’s football team recently secured its second national championship since 2013, and now the women’s basketball team is thriving. The Buckeyes are currently second in the Big Ten with a 20-1 record (9-1 in conference play).
Ohio State’s success stems from its ability to consistently win games. In today’s landscape, even top-ranked teams are susceptible to unexpected losses that derail momentum. However, the Buckeyes have remained focused. Of their 17 games against unranked opponents, they have lost only once—against Penn State on January 19th (62-59). Despite leading for more than 23 minutes, a disastrous fourth quarter, where they shot just 2-of-12 from the field, cost them the game.
The McGuff Effect
Head coach Kevin McGuff has been at the helm of Ohio State women’s basketball since 2013, bringing more than two decades of coaching experience. Prior to Columbus, he spent nine seasons at Xavier (214-73) and two at Washington (41-26), building a reputation for program development and sustained success.
Since arriving at Ohio State, McGuff has rejuvenated the program, leading the Buckeyes to multiple Big Ten championships, Sweet 16 berths, and an Elite Eight appearance in 2022-23—the program’s first in 30 years. His teams are known for high-powered offenses, aggressive defenses, and elite recruiting classes.
McGuff’s coaching pedigree also includes time at Notre Dame as an assistant under Muffet McGraw, where he was part of the 2001 national championship staff. His ability to recruit top talent and build competitive teams has cemented his status as one of the best coaches in women’s college basketball.
Key Players Leading the Charge
Ohio State’s offense is fueled by Cotie McMahon, Jaloni Cambridge, and Chance Gray. This trio brings versatility, leadership, and a dynamic style of play that makes the Buckeyes a dangerous team.
Cotie McMahon: The Leader
McMahon, a junior from Centerville, Ohio, is the heart of the Buckeyes. Her composure under pressure makes her difficult to defend, and her high basketball IQ enhances Ohio State’s offensive flow. This season, she’s averaging 16.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and shooting 43% from the field. Ranked No. 23 in the 2022 ESPNW HoopGurlz Recruiting Rankings, McMahon is poised to elevate her game even further as the season progresses.
Jaloni Cambridge: The Speedster
Cambridge, a former Montverde Academy standout and the No. 2 overall recruit by ESPN, thrives in transition. Her speed is a weapon on both ends of the floor—whether attacking off the dribble or racing downcourt for fast-break layups. She is averaging 15 points, 4.6 rebounds, and shooting 44.5% from the field.
Chance Gray: The Versatile Guard
Gray brings experience and adaptability to Ohio State. A transfer from Oregon, she has steadily improved her game, increasing her averages from 10.3 points as a freshman to 13.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 3 assists as a sophomore. Her two-way impact will be crucial in the Buckeyes’ postseason push.
What’s Next?
Ohio State is looking to bounce back from a tough loss to No. 1 UCLA. Lauren Betts (19 points) and Gabriela Jaquez (17 points) proved too much for the Buckeyes, despite Cambridge’s 21-point effort and McMahon’s 14. Up next, Ohio State faces No. 7 USC this Saturday at 8:00 p.m. CT on Fox. The Buckeyes must regroup quickly as they prepare to challenge USC’s formidable duo, JuJu Watkins and Kiki Iriafen.
Ohio State has all the pieces for a deep tournament run. If they continue to execute at a high level, the Buckeyes could be a serious contender come March.
