Cotie McMahon’s Late Free Throws Lift No. 13 Ohio State Past Iowa 60-59 in Big Ten Quarterfinals

In a thrilling Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament quarterfinal clash, No. 13 Ohio State emerged victorious over Iowa in a nail-biting finish, edging the Hawkeyes 60-59. It was a game defined by resilience, intense defense, and a dramatic conclusion. Cotie McMahon, the sophomore guard for the Buckeyes, was the hero of the evening, sinking two crucial free throws in the final seconds to seal the win. The victory not only secured Ohio State’s place in the semifinals but also kept their hopes alive for a deep run in the tournament and possibly an NCAA Tournament bid.

Pre-Game Context: Big Ten Tournament Implications

The Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament, held annually in Indianapolis, has long been one of the premier showcases for the best teams in the conference. For Ohio State, the stakes were high. Coming into the quarterfinals with a solid 22-6 record and ranked No. 13 in the nation, the Buckeyes were considered one of the favorites to contend for the championship. However, they had been inconsistent at times during the season, and their performance in the tournament would be crucial in determining their seeding for the NCAA Tournament.

Iowa, on the other hand, was a formidable opponent. Led by head coach Lisa Bluder, the Hawkeyes had a potent offense anchored by star players such as Caitlin Clark, one of the most dynamic players in college basketball. Clark had been playing at an MVP level, leading the nation in scoring and showing an impressive ability to take over games. With a 20-9 record entering the tournament, Iowa was dangerous and could never be counted out, especially with Clark’s ability to score from anywhere on the court.

The matchup between Ohio State and Iowa promised to be a clash of styles. Ohio State’s defense had been one of the best in the Big Ten, while Iowa’s offense had been nearly unstoppable at times. The game would ultimately turn into a battle of wills, with both teams showing flashes of brilliance, but it was McMahon’s clutch performance that would steal the show.

First Half: Iowa’s Offensive Firepower vs. Ohio State’s Defense

The game began with a fast pace, as both teams seemed eager to establish their presence early. Iowa, led by Caitlin Clark, wasted no time asserting her offensive prowess, hitting a pair of early three-pointers. The Buckeyes, however, were determined to make things difficult for Clark. Ohio State’s defense, led by the likes of McMahon and senior guard Taylor Mikesell, worked hard to limit Clark’s open looks and force her into tough contested shots.

Despite Iowa’s hot start, Ohio State responded quickly with its own offensive firepower. Senior forward Rebeka Mikulasikova played an important role early in the game, using her size and skill to score in the post. Mikesell also chipped in with a couple of three-pointers, while McMahon used her quickness to get to the basket and finish at the rim.

The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and playing with high intensity. The lead changed hands several times, but Iowa managed to take a narrow 33-30 lead into halftime. Clark was doing most of the heavy lifting for the Hawkeyes, scoring 17 points in the first half, including a pair of three-pointers that had the Buckeyes scrambling to keep up.

For Ohio State, McMahon was leading the charge with 10 points, while Mikesell added 7 points. The Buckeyes were hanging around thanks to their defense, which had forced Iowa into some difficult shooting situations. However, they knew that they would need to continue to clamp down defensively and find ways to neutralize Clark in the second half.

Second Half: The Defensive Battle Intensifies

Coming out of the break, both teams adjusted their strategies. Iowa continued to rely heavily on Clark’s offensive production, but Ohio State’s defense began to tighten even further. They switched between man-to-man and zone defenses, attempting to throw off Clark’s rhythm. At times, they were successful in forcing the Hawkeyes into turnovers, but Clark’s ability to create shots for herself and her teammates kept Iowa in the game.

The Buckeyes, though, were not backing down. They came out strong in the second half, showing grit and determination. McMahon was particularly aggressive, both in her scoring and in her defensive efforts. The sophomore guard, who had been in and out of the starting lineup throughout the season, proved to be a calming presence on offense, while also being a key defender against Iowa’s perimeter shooters.

With five minutes left in the game, Iowa held a slim 55-53 lead, and tensions were high. Both teams traded baskets, with neither able to establish a clear advantage. Clark’s continued scoring kept Iowa ahead, but the Buckeyes were staying within striking distance. With just over a minute remaining, McMahon hit a crucial three-pointer that tied the game at 59, sending the Ohio State bench into a frenzy.

Iowa had a chance to respond, but Ohio State’s defense forced Clark into a difficult shot that missed. The Buckeyes secured the rebound, and they had the ball with 20 seconds left, with the game tied at 59.

The Final Moments: Cotie McMahon Takes Over

With the game on the line, Ohio State head coach Kevin McGuff called a timeout to set up a play. The Buckeyes knew they needed to get the ball into the hands of McMahon, who had been playing at an elite level all game. The sophomore guard was not only a strong scorer but had shown her poise and ability to perform in clutch situations throughout the season.

On the final possession, Ohio State worked the ball around, looking for an opening. McMahon eventually drove to the basket, drawing a foul from Iowa’s Monika Czinano, sending her to the free-throw line with 2.3 seconds remaining. The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with fans from both sides on the edge of their seats.

McMahon, cool and composed, stepped up to the line with the game on the line. She sank the first free throw, giving Ohio State a one-point lead. The pressure was immense, but McMahon showed no signs of nervousness. She confidently knocked down the second free throw, putting Ohio State ahead 60-59.

Iowa had one final chance, but their desperation heave at the buzzer missed, and Ohio State celebrated their hard-fought victory.

Post-Game Analysis: McMahon’s Growth and Ohio State’s Resilience

Cotie McMahon’s performance in the final moments of the game was a testament to her growth as a player and her ability to thrive under pressure. The sophomore guard has been a key player for Ohio State all season, but this game showcased just how far she’s come in her development. McMahon finished with 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, and her clutch free throws will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the Big Ten quarterfinals.

Head coach Kevin McGuff was full of praise for McMahon after the game, emphasizing her maturity and confidence in big moments. “Cotie has really grown throughout the season,” McGuff said. “She’s become someone we can count on in key moments, and she showed that tonight.”

While McMahon was the hero, Ohio State’s defense played a crucial role in the win as well. The Buckeyes were able to limit Iowa’s offense in key moments, especially when it mattered most. Although Caitlin Clark finished with 28 points, the Buckeyes were able to make life difficult for her in the second half, forcing her into contested shots and limiting her ability to create for others.

Ohio State’s victory sent them to the Big Ten semifinals, where they would face a tough opponent in the next round. But the win over Iowa was a huge confidence booster for the Buckeyes, who had shown they could compete with one of the best teams in the country.

For Iowa, the loss was a painful one. Despite Clark’s incredible performance, the Hawkeyes were unable to hold on in the final seconds. It was a game they felt they should have won, but Ohio State’s resilience proved to be the difference. Iowa would now have to regroup and look ahead to the NCAA Tournament, where they would be a formidable force.

Looking Ahead: Ohio State’s Path to the Championship

With the Big Ten semifinals looming, Ohio State will face another tough test. But with players like McMahon, Mikesell, and Mikulasikova stepping up, the Buckeyes are positioned well for a deep run. Their defense has been one of the best in the conference, and they have the offensive firepower to keep up with the best teams in the country.

As the NCAA Tournament approaches, this win will be a significant confidence booster for Ohio State. They know they can win close games and thrive in high-pressure moments, and that will be invaluable as they look to make a deep run.

For Cotie McMahon, this game was a statement. She showed that she is ready for the biggest moments and could be a star for Ohio State for years to come.