Ohio State’s Cotie McMahon Makes History, Wins Maxwell and Lisa Leslie Awards

COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio State Buckeyes junior forward Cotie McMahon has made history, earning both the Maxwell Award and the Lisa Leslie Award in a single season. This remarkable accomplishment not only highlights McMahon’s exceptional skills on the court but also cements her place among the elite players in college women’s basketball. She becomes only the second player in Ohio State women’s basketball history to claim both prestigious honors in the same season, joining an exclusive group of athletes who have reached such heights.

The Maxwell Award: Recognizing the Nation’s Best

The Maxwell Award, named after Robert W. Maxwell, a former college football coach and sportswriter, is given annually to the top player in college women’s basketball. This accolade is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious individual awards in the sport. It recognizes a player’s overall performance, leadership, and ability to influence the game in a positive way. Cotie McMahon’s victory is a testament to her incredible ability on both ends of the court.

Throughout the season, McMahon has been a driving force for the Buckeyes, leading her team to numerous victories and making significant contributions in almost every game. Her versatility as a player has allowed her to shine in multiple facets of the game, from scoring to rebounding to defending. McMahon’s athleticism, combined with her basketball IQ, makes her one of the most complete players in the country, and it’s no surprise that she was selected to receive the Maxwell Award.

McMahon’s 2024 season has been one for the history books. She averaged 20.1 points per game, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, showcasing her ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. Her scoring efficiency, coupled with her leadership skills, has made her an indispensable asset to Ohio State. Whether it’s sinking clutch shots, grabbing key rebounds, or providing a spark on defense, McMahon has been the anchor for the Buckeyes throughout their campaign.

Her performance has also led to Ohio State achieving high rankings throughout the season, with the team making a deep run in the NCAA tournament and competing with some of the best teams in the country. McMahon’s impact on the game extends beyond the box score – her leadership on and off the court has been a key factor in the team’s success.

The Lisa Leslie Award: Honoring the Best Center in the Game

Named after basketball legend Lisa Leslie, one of the greatest women’s players in the history of the game, the Lisa Leslie Award is presented annually to the top center in women’s college basketball. The award not only celebrates the athletic prowess of the recipient but also honors the values of leadership, dedication, and sportsmanship that Leslie herself embodied throughout her illustrious career.

Although McMahon is not a traditional center, her ability to dominate in the paint, both offensively and defensively, made her a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor. Her size, athleticism, and tenacity have allowed her to excel in the areas that Leslie herself was known for – rebounding, shot-blocking, and scoring in the post. McMahon’s defensive ability, coupled with her offensive skill set, has made her one of the most feared players in the nation.

McMahon’s selection for the Lisa Leslie Award reflects her outstanding contributions in the paint, where she has made a significant impact for Ohio State. She averaged over 2 blocks per game during the season, anchoring the Buckeyes’ defense and allowing them to compete at the highest level. Her presence in the post on both ends of the floor has been one of the defining features of her game. Whether she’s blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, or finishing plays in the paint, McMahon has been the quintessential force in the center position for Ohio State.

The Significance of McMahon’s Achievements

Cotie McMahon’s dual award recognition speaks volumes about her talent and the work she has put in to reach this point in her career. It’s a testament to her commitment to excellence, her unwavering work ethic, and her drive to be the best. For McMahon to earn both the Maxwell and Lisa Leslie Awards in the same season is a rare feat that puts her in a league of her own.

McMahon’s achievements also have significant implications for Ohio State women’s basketball. Her ability to perform at such a high level has propelled the program to new heights, making it a national contender year after year. The success of players like McMahon helps elevate the entire program and sets the stage for future generations of athletes to follow in her footsteps.

For Ohio State, this achievement also brings renewed attention to women’s basketball in the state of Ohio. McMahon’s dominance has not only put the Buckeyes on the map but has also helped raise the profile of women’s college basketball across the country. Her success at Ohio State serves as a powerful reminder of the growing talent pool in women’s sports and the importance of providing opportunities for female athletes to shine.

A Bright Future Ahead

While McMahon has already accomplished so much in her career, the future looks even brighter. With two of the most prestigious awards in women’s basketball under her belt, McMahon is poised to continue her ascent as one of the best players in the nation. She has proven time and again that she has the skills, the mindset, and the determination to succeed at the highest level. As McMahon continues to develop her game, it’s exciting to think about the further heights she will reach in the coming seasons.

Her leadership on and off the court will continue to inspire those around her, whether it’s her teammates, fans, or young aspiring athletes who look up to her as a role model. McMahon’s story is one of hard work, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of greatness – qualities that will serve her well as she continues her basketball journey.