Ohio State’s Strong Regular Season Performance

As of late February, Ohio State has been performing at a high level under head coach Kevin McGuff. With a mix of veteran leadership and promising underclassmen, the team has been a contender in the Big Ten all season. They currently sit among the top teams in the conference, vying for a higher seed in both the Big Ten Tournament and the NCAA Tournament.

Ohio State’s offense has been one of the standout aspects of their game this season. The team has averaged impressive scoring totals, led by some standout individual performances, particularly in high-pressure games against ranked opponents. As of late February, they have been solid in both their offensive execution and defensive discipline, which will be crucial as they head into the final week of the season.

Key Players to Watch for Ohio State:

• Jacy Sheldon: As a senior guard, Sheldon has been a key contributor to Ohio State’s success this season. She has been known for her leadership on the court and her ability to make plays when the game is on the line. Sheldon’s experience and scoring ability are vital for Ohio State as they prepare for these crucial final matchups.
• Cotie McMahon: A standout forward who has impressed fans with her versatility and aggressive playstyle. McMahon’s ability to score from inside and outside the paint has made her an integral part of Ohio State’s offensive schemes.
• Taylor Mikesell: A transfer from Oregon, Mikesell has been another key addition to the Buckeyes’ lineup, bringing valuable shooting ability and leadership. Her scoring from beyond the arc has helped space the floor for her teammates.

A Look at Their Opponents: Michigan State and Maryland

Michigan State Spartans

Michigan State, coached by Suzy Merchant, has had a strong season, particularly in their defense and rebounding. The Spartans have been known for their physical play, and they will undoubtedly bring that energy to Columbus when they take on Ohio State on February 26, 2025. Michigan State has also relied on their balanced offense, with several players stepping up throughout the season. Ohio State will need to control the pace of the game and make sure to take advantage of their offensive weapons to avoid being out-rebounded or overwhelmed by Michigan State’s defense.

Key players for Michigan State to watch include:

• Janae Terry: A dynamic guard who has been crucial in setting the tone for Michigan State this season. Terry is known for her ball-handling and playmaking ability, so controlling her on the defensive end will be key for Ohio State.
• Taiyier Parks: A forward with the size and physicality to challenge Ohio State’s frontcourt. Parks’ rebounding and post play will be a key factor in how the game unfolds.

Maryland Terrapins

Maryland is always a tough opponent, and this year is no different. Under head coach Brenda Frese, the Terrapins have remained one of the most consistent teams in women’s college basketball. Maryland’s blend of speed and strength, combined with excellent shooting from their guards, makes them a formidable opponent for any team, especially at home.

Ohio State’s challenge against Maryland will be to slow down their offense and limit transition opportunities. The Terrapins have several players who can score in a variety of ways, so Ohio State’s defense must be on high alert.

Key players for Maryland to watch include:

• Diamond Miller: A versatile forward who is one of the most talented players in the Big Ten. Miller is a threat to score both inside and from the perimeter, and Ohio State will need to limit her offensive opportunities.
• Shyanne Sellers: Another talented guard, Sellers brings scoring and playmaking ability to the table. Her ability to create her own shot and facilitate for teammates will be a focus for Ohio State’s defense.

Big Ten Implications

The matchups against Michigan State and Maryland carry significant weight not just for Ohio State’s postseason positioning, but also in terms of their Big Ten standing. While the Buckeyes are in a strong position to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament, these two games could determine whether they earn a top-four seed in the Big Ten Tournament. A higher seed would mean a more favorable draw and a potential bye in the early rounds of the conference tournament, which is critical for conserving energy heading into the NCAA Tournament.

Ohio State has been one of the top programs in the Big Ten, and a strong finish to the regular season would reaffirm their status as a national contender. The rivalry with Maryland, in particular, holds extra weight due to the historical success of both programs. The Buckeyes will want to prove they can handle one of the best teams in the country on the road, which would provide a huge confidence boost heading into postseason play.

The Importance of the Senior Class

As mentioned earlier, the game against Michigan State will be Senior Day for Ohio State, and this is a moment for the program to reflect on the contributions of their senior players. Jacy Sheldon, who has been with the program for several years, has been the face of the team for much of her career. The leadership she has provided both on and off the court has been invaluable to Ohio State’s success, and her final regular-season home game is sure to be an emotional moment for her and the program.

Taylor Mikesell, another senior, will also be honored during this game. Her leadership and shooting ability have had a tremendous impact on the team’s offensive schemes, and her role in helping Ohio State reach the top of the conference cannot be overstated. The Buckeyes will be eager to send their seniors out with a victory in front of their home fans.

Looking Ahead to the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments

As the Buckeyes look to finish their regular season strong, their eyes are already on the postseason. After their final regular-season games, Ohio State will head to the Big Ten Tournament, where they will compete against some of the best teams in the country. Depending on their performance in the final two regular-season games, Ohio State’s seeding in the Big Ten Tournament will be crucial for their path to a potential championship.

The NCAA Tournament is also on the horizon, and Ohio State has the potential to make a deep run. They have proven that they can compete with the best teams in the country, and if they continue to improve as the season concludes, they will be a dangerous team come March Madness.

In conclusion, the final week of the regular season for Ohio State women’s basketball is critical in determining not only their standing in the Big Ten but also their momentum heading into the postseason. The matchups against Michigan State and Maryland will test the Buckeyes in different ways. While Michigan State brings toughness and defense, Maryland offers a potent offensive threat. Regardless of the outcomes, Ohio State is well-positioned to make a strong run in both the Big Ten Tournament and the NCAA Tournament. Fans will be eagerly watching the Buckeyes’ performance as they head into the final week of the regular season, with aspirations of competing for championships on the horizon.