Eric Boggs
Ohio State women’s basketball fans, there’s plenty to be excited about. After Jaloni Cambridge’s standout debut against Cleveland State, Oregon transfer Chance Gray stole the spotlight in the Buckeyes’ 94-53 blowout win over Charlotte. Gray’s incredible 31-point performance and record-tying nine 3-pointers energized the team and helped lift Ohio State to 2-0 to start the season. The energy of the new team roster and revamped coaching staff is setting the stage for an exciting season, and Buckeye Nation is ready for more.
Gray’s Record-Tying Performance Lights Up Value City Arena
Buckeye fans, this was a night to remember. In only her second game as a Buckeye, Chance Gray went 9-for-14 from beyond the arc, tying Kelsey Mitchell’s Ohio State single-game record for made three-pointers. Her lights-out shooting helped Ohio State hit an impressive 52% from the floor, with 10 three-pointers total (Cambridge added the other). Gray not only crushed her previous career-high of 22 points from her days at Oregon but also helped solidify a 41-point win over Charlotte.
Gray’s deep-range accuracy was only part of the story, as Ohio State’s defense held Charlotte to 35% shooting and racked up 16 steals, shutting down the 49ers’ offense with relentless pressure and setting a high standard for the rest of the season. And talk about a highlight reel: Cotie McMahon had her second consecutive double-digit game with 11 points, while Ajae Petty added 12 points in her first double-figure game as a Buckeye.
Unbreakable Defense and Relentless Scoring
The game started with an Ohio State scoring run that had fans on their feet early. After taking a 25-6 lead to close the first quarter, the Buckeyes were unstoppable. They held Charlotte scoreless for the last six minutes of the first, finishing on a 17-point run. By halftime, Ohio State led 43-17, setting the tone with defensive prowess and efficient shooting.
The second half saw Charlotte briefly close the gap, but a dominant fourth-quarter push secured the Buckeyes’ victory. Gray opened the final quarter with her eighth three-pointer, and Ohio State ended the game on a 14-2 run, reminding fans that the team’s focus is on precision, defense, and relentless scoring.
Jaloni Cambridge and New Leadership Add Depth
Although Cambridge exited in the third quarter after a hard fall, her earlier contributions and infectious energy set a great example. She later returned to the bench to cheer on her teammates, demonstrating the team spirit Buckeye Nation loves. Cambridge’s presence on the court, alongside standout Cotie McMahon, gives Ohio State depth and versatility, allowing Coach Kevin McGuff to keep the lineup fresh.
Legendary Leadership on the Sidelines: Katie Smith and Jacy Sheldon
This season also marks the debut of two Buckeye legends on the coaching staff: Katie Smith, one of the greatest players in Ohio State history, and Jacy Sheldon, fresh off her rookie season in the WNBA. Smith, a Hall of Famer and two-time WNBA champion, brings an unparalleled legacy to Ohio State’s sidelines. Known for her fierce competitiveness and deep understanding of the game, Smith has spent over a decade coaching in the WNBA, most recently as associate head coach for the Minnesota Lynx, whom she helped guide to the WNBA Finals. Her return to Ohio State not only signifies a full-circle moment for the Buckeye legend but is also a huge gain for the program as her experience will help sharpen this team’s skills and on-court awareness. Smith’s expertise, especially in defensive strategy and leadership development, is already resonating with the players and will be instrumental as the team faces elite competition this season.
Adding to the excitement, former Buckeye star Jacy Sheldon joins as the director of player development. Sheldon, who led Ohio State to an Elite Eight appearance and a Big Ten regular-season title, will help guide players on and off the court. She brings a fresh perspective from her recent rookie season with the Dallas Wings and will play a pivotal role in individual skills training and player mentoring. Sheldon’s dedication to leadership, work ethic, and mental resilience reflects her passion for the program and her commitment to Buckeye excellence.
Together, Smith and Sheldon bring a powerful combination of seasoned expertise and recent competitive experience, inspiring the team to reach new heights. Fans can feel the impact these two bring, creating an environment focused on growth, hard work, and an intense will to win. Buckeye Nation couldn’t ask for better role models for this team, and the future looks incredibly bright with these two champions helping lead the way.
Buckeyes Hit the Road
As Ohio State heads to Nashville to face Belmont, Buckeye fans will be watching closely to see if this momentum can carry into the first road game. Gray’s breakout game, combined with a strong defensive showing, has the team looking ready to tackle whatever comes their way. The team’s new coaching staff and exciting additions like Gray and Cambridge are energizing Ohio State’s drive toward a big season. For fans, this blend of talent, leadership, and fierce defensive play is a recipe for success.
From scoring explosions to the brick-wall defense, the Buckeyes are giving fans every reason to believe this will be an unforgettable season. Go Bucks!
