The Ohio State women’s basketball team, seeded fourth in the NCAA Tournament, recognizes the necessity of elevating their game to achieve a significant tournament run. Despite boasting a commendable 25-6 record this season, the Buckeyes haven't consistently demonstrated the prowess suggested by their standings. While they began with a strong start, winning 20 out of their first 21 games, only one victory was against an AP Top 25 team. In their last ten games leading into March Madness, they have struggled, posting a 5-5 record, particularly faltering against ranked opponents.
Defense has traditionally been a forte for the Buckeyes under coach Kevin McGuff, renowned for their full-court press style that ranks them eleventh nationwide in turnovers forced per game. However, recent defensive lapses have allowed over 70 points in seven of their last nine contests. Rebounding remains a persistent issue, averaging a deficit of 2.4 boards per game. Moreover, inconsistency in maintaining a full 40-minute competitive edge has plagued their performance.
This weekend at the Schottenstein Center, Ohio State faces Montana State, a formidable opponent with a 30-3 record. The Bobcats are known for their hard play and strategic coaching, making them a serious contender despite being a lower seed. Guard Kennedy Cambridge, reflecting on last year's disappointing second-round loss, emphasized the team's determination not to repeat past mistakes.
Coach McGuff anticipated fluctuations in performance due to replacing three key starters from the previous season. To address these challenges, he deliberately scheduled less demanding non-conference matches, providing time for team development. As the NCAA Tournament approaches, the question looms: can Ohio State finally reach their peak potential when it truly counts?
Players like Cotie McMahon and Chance Gray acknowledge the need for enhanced consistency. McMahon noted that the team hasn’t yet played their best basketball, viewing this as both a challenge and an opportunity to showcase their true capabilities. Meanwhile, Gray highlighted the importance of discipline and teamwork to elevate their game.
Entering the tournament, the Buckeyes appear nearly at full strength. Key players such as McMahon and Jaloni Cambridge, recovering from injuries, are set to participate fully. Freshman guard Ava Watson, also returning from injury, adds depth to the roster. Coach McGuff identified specific players crucial for success, including Cambridge, McMahon, and Taylor Thierry, while emphasizing the significance of bench contributions.
Moving forward, Ohio State must embrace urgency and cohesion to navigate the challenging path ahead. Their opening match against Montana State will be a litmus test for their readiness. Coach McGuff warned against underestimating the Bobcats, underscoring their winning culture and competitive spirit. Success will hinge on executing the fundamentals effectively and playing with heart and grit.
Facing Montana State, Ohio State understands the imperative of focusing on the immediate challenge rather than looking too far ahead. With a balanced scoring attack led by multiple double-digit scorers and a commitment to improved defense and rebounding, the Buckeyes aim to validate their status as a top-tier program. Their journey begins Friday, where proving themselves on the court will determine their fate in this year's NCAA Tournament.