Eric Boggs
Ohio State fans will savor this one for a while. Beating Michigan is always sweet, but doing it in Ann Arbor, with a gutsy comeback and standout performances, makes it unforgettable. The No. 9-ranked Buckeyes battled back from a 13-point halftime deficit to defeat No. 25 Michigan, 84-77, in their lone regular-season meeting Wednesday night.
Freshman sensation Jaloni Cambridge shined yet again, leading all scorers with 29 points. She delivered a stellar performance on 11-of-23 shooting, sinking six of seven free throws, while adding six rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Cambridge wasn’t alone in her efforts; guards Chance Gray (16 points) and Taylor Thierry (eight points, seven rebounds) and forwards Cotie McMahon (13 points) and Ajae Petty (10 points, seven rebounds) all made crucial contributions. Ohio State’s starters carried the load, with head coach Kevin McGuff utilizing his bench sparingly.
The game began with Michigan’s hot shooting from beyond the arc, which propelled them to a 26-18 first-quarter lead. By halftime, the Wolverines had extended their advantage to 44-31. But the resilient Buckeyes weren’t done. A dominant third-quarter defensive effort, limiting Michigan to one field goal in the first six minutes, allowed Ohio State to claw back into the game. Gray’s three-point shooting and Cambridge’s relentless scoring tied things up late in the third quarter before Michigan eked out a 57-53 lead heading into the final frame.
Ohio State saved their best for last, outscoring Michigan 31-20 in the fourth quarter. Thierry’s steal and layup gave the Buckeyes their first lead with just over four minutes remaining, and an 8-0 run in the final minute sealed the victory. The Buckeyes shot an impressive 67% from the field in the final quarter, showcasing their composure and determination in crunch time.
With the win, Ohio State improved to 15-0 on the season and 4-0 in Big Ten play, maintaining their undefeated record and proving why they’re among the nation’s elite. This marks Michigan’s first home loss of the season and Ohio State’s second victory over a ranked opponent.
Next up, the Buckeyes return home to face Oregon on Sunday in Columbus. Tip-off is at 1 p.m., and fans are sure to pack the house as this unstoppable Ohio State squad looks to continue their perfect season.
Nothing beats a win over Michigan—especially one like this. Go Bucks!
