Eric Boggs
Ohio State women’s basketball fans have plenty to cheer about after a thrilling week of Big Ten play. The No. 12-ranked Buckeyes showcased their grit and determination, securing two critical victories against Nebraska and Maryland in dramatic fashion. These wins were not just tests of skill but also tests of heart, as the Buckeyes overcame early deficits and tough opponents to solidify their position at the top of the conference standings.
The action began Thursday night in Columbus when the Buckeyes hosted No. 8 Maryland, a formidable top-10 opponent. The Terrapins stormed out of the gates with a commanding first quarter, leaving Ohio State trailing 22-12 after ten minutes. The Buckeyes struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, heading into the locker room down 34-27.
But in true Buckeye fashion, the second half was a completely different story. Jaloni Cambridge, who seems to thrive under pressure, spearheaded a 15-0 third-quarter run that flipped the script. With steals fueling fast-break opportunities and clutch shooting from players like Kennedy Cambridge and Cotie McMahon, Ohio State seized control, taking their first lead and never looked back. The fourth quarter saw the Buckeyes extend their lead to double digits, thanks to a relentless defensive effort and timely buckets. Jaloni finished with 20 points, her fourth 20-point game in five outings, while Kennedy added a career-high 12 points, punctuating the 74-66 victory with style.
If Thursday’s game was a statement, Sunday’s road win against Nebraska was a testament to resilience. Playing in front of nearly 10,000 fans at Pinnacle Bank Arena, the Buckeyes faced a scrappy Nebraska team hungry for an upset. The first quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with the Huskers taking a 21-17 lead. Ohio State battled to stay close in the second quarter, trailing by just two at halftime, 38-36.
The third quarter once again proved to be a turning point. McMahon and Taylor Thierry powered the Buckeyes with key buckets during a decisive 14-3 run. Thierry, in particular, was sensational, pouring in a season-high 23 points on an efficient 8-of-10 shooting performance. She also drained a career-best five three-pointers, including a step-back triple in the fourth quarter that gave Ohio State breathing room in crunch time. McMahon, who recorded her second double-double of the season with 15 points and 10 rebounds, provided a steadying presence in the paint.
Nebraska made it interesting late, cutting the deficit to just one point, but Ohio State showed poise under pressure. Madison Greene hit clutch free throws down the stretch, and the defense came up with critical stops to secure the 72-66 victory.
These back-to-back wins highlight the Buckeyes’ ability to adapt, persevere, and execute in high-pressure situations. With strong contributions across the board—from Thierry’s scoring outbursts to Jaloni’s playmaking and Kennedy’s—the team is firing on all cylinders as they eye deeper postseason aspirations.
Up next, the Buckeyes return home in a week to face Washington on Sunday, a matchup that promises another opportunity for fans to witness this resilient squad in action.
