When Ohio State and Stanford meet on the court, it’s always a big deal. Both programs have storied histories and consistently rank among the nation’s elite in women’s basketball.
But this year, the Ohio State Buckeyes dominated the Stanford Cardinal in a decisive 84-59 victory at the Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic. It was a statement win for Ohio State, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with this season.
Let’s take a closer look at the key moments of the Ohio State vs. Stanford game, including standout player performances, defensive strategies, and the overall highlights that led to the Buckeyes’ impressive win.
Game Summary: A Comprehensive Overview
The Ohio State versus Stanford game was part of the Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic, held at the Chase Center.
From tip-off, Ohio State seemed to have the upper hand, building a significant lead that Stanford struggled to overcome. The Buckeyes’ offensive firepower and defensive pressure proved too much for the Cardinal to handle.
There were several key moments that cemented Ohio State’s dominance. A 12-0 run in the second quarter really put Stanford on its heels. Later, a steal and fast-break layup by Jacy Sheldon seemed to deflate Stanford’s comeback hopes. The Buckeyes maintained their lead throughout the second half, securing a decisive win.
Offensive Prowess: Key Player Performances
The Buckeyes offensive onslaught was fueled by a distributed attack, with several players stepping up to contribute significantly.
Cotie McMahon’s Leadership
Cotie McMahon led the charge, topping the scoring charts with 16 points. More than just the points, McMahon’s leadership and ability to drive to the basket seemed to energize the entire team, setting the tone for their dominant performance. She was a force to be reckoned with, drawing fouls and creating opportunities for her teammates.
Double-Figure Scorers
McMahon wasn’t alone in carrying the offensive load. Four other Buckeyes reached double figures, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility:
- Ajae Petty: 14 points and a near double-double with 9 rebounds, providing a strong presence in the paint.
- Chance Gray: 14 points, demonstrating her scoring ability from the perimeter.
- Madison Greene: 15 points, achieving a season-high and proving her value as a reliable scorer.
- Taylor Thierry: 12 points, contributing with her athleticism and ability to get to the rim.
- Ava Watson: 11 points.
Individual Contributions
Each of these players brought something unique to the offense. Petty’s rebounding and inside scoring were crucial, while Gray and Greene provided much-needed perimeter shooting. Thierry’s energy and athleticism were infectious. Even players who didn’t reach double figures played important roles. This all-around effort highlights the Buckeyes’ strength as a team, where contributions come from various sources, making them a difficult opponent to defend.
Defensive Dominance: Shutting Down Stanford
The Buckeyes’ defense was the story of the game, holding Stanford to unusually low scoring, particularly in the early going. Stanford struggled to find their rhythm, especially in the first quarter when they shot a frigid 2-for-11 (.182) from the field.
Ohio State’s defensive game plan clearly focused on disrupting Stanford’s offensive flow. While specific plays are difficult to isolate without a deep dive into film, the Buckeyes were active in the passing lanes, leading to key steals and forced turnovers that swung momentum.
A major factor in Ohio State’s defensive success was Elsa Lemmilä, whose presence in the paint was a constant deterrent. With 28 blocks on the season heading into the game, Lemmilä proved to be a formidable rim protector, altering shots and forcing Stanford’s players to think twice before attacking the basket. Her ability to control the paint was instrumental in stifling Stanford’s offense and securing the victory for Ohio State.
By the Numbers: Ohio State’s Domination
The Buckeyes made a statement against Stanford, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive prowess. Here’s a quick look at how the game unfolded statistically:
- Final Score: Ohio State 84, Stanford 59
- Ohio State Record: 12-0 (1-0 in the Big Ten)
- Stanford Record: 8-4 (0-1 in the ACC)
- Fourth Quarter Field Goal Percentage (Ohio State): A scorching 70.6% (12-of-17)
That fourth quarter performance really sealed the deal for Ohio State, highlighting their efficiency and ability to close out games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Bijan Robinson commit to Ohio State?
No, Bijan Robinson, the highly-touted running back, did not commit to Ohio State. He was heavily recruited by the Buckeyes, but he ultimately chose to commit to the University of Texas. Buckeye fans definitely felt that loss!
What did Lou Holtz say about Ohio State?
Lou Holtz, the former coach, made some controversial comments about Ohio State’s toughness leading up to their game against Notre Dame. He questioned their physicality, which understandably ruffled some feathers among Buckeye fans and the team itself. It certainly added fuel to the fire for that matchup!
Did police use pepper spray at the Ohio State game?
While specific incidents can vary from game to game, there have been instances where police have used pepper spray at Ohio State games, typically in situations involving unruly crowds or breaches of security. It’s usually a last resort to maintain order, but it’s always a sensitive topic.
What was the Ohio State tattoo scandal?
The Ohio State tattoo scandal involved several star football players who were found to have exchanged memorabilia for tattoos, which is a violation of NCAA rules. This led to suspensions for the players and the resignation of head coach Jim Tressel. It was a major controversy that shook the program for a while.
To Conclude
Ohio State’s dominant performance against Stanford showcased their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. From the opening tip, the Buckeyes dictated the tempo and controlled the boards, leading to a decisive victory.
This win further solidifies Ohio State’s already impressive record (12-0, 1-0 B1G) and reinforces their status as a force to be reckoned with this season. The Buckeyes are playing with confidence and cohesion, making them a tough opponent for any team.
Looking ahead, Ohio State faces a challenging schedule, but with their current form, they are well-positioned to continue their winning streak and make a deep run into the tournament.