Ohio State Women’s Basketball Edges Iowa in Thrilling Big Ten Quarterfinal Showdown!

In a nail-biting contest that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Ohio State women’s basketball team triumphed over Iowa with a final score of 60-59 in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals held on March 7, 2025. This thrilling matchup took place at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, a neutral site that has become a battleground for teams vying for tournament glory.

The Buckeyes, seeded No. 3, improved their season record to 25-5, while the Hawkeyes, seeded No. 11, concluded their tournament run with a record of 22-10. The game was a showcase of resilience and competitive spirit, featuring eight lead changes and a fierce back-and-forth battle that kept spectators captivated throughout the entire 40 minutes.

Ohio State’s victory was marked by standout performances from several key players. Cotie McMahon led the Buckeyes with 18 points, continuing her impressive streak of scoring in double figures for the 24th game this season. Her contributions were crucial, especially in the final moments when she sealed the win with critical free throws. “Every possession mattered, and we knew we had to stay focused until the final buzzer,” McMahon stated after the game.

Another notable performance came from Taylor Thierry, who added 14 points, seven rebounds, and five steals to her team’s efforts. Her all-around performance was instrumental in maintaining Ohio State’s defensive pressure against a formidable Iowa offense. Additionally, Ajae Petty recorded a double-double with 12 rebounds, showcasing her dominance on the boards and providing essential support for her teammates.

The game was not without its tense moments. Iowa’s Sydney Affolter hit a crucial three-pointer late in the game, giving the Hawkeyes a brief 59-58 lead. However, Ohio State’s defense proved to be a game-changer, limiting Iowa’s shooting to just 27% from beyond the arc. This defensive tenacity allowed the Buckeyes to regain control and ultimately secure the victory.

This matchup was significant for both teams, as they had previously shared the Big Ten regular-season title earlier in the season. The victory also avenged Ohio State’s loss to Iowa in the 2023 Big Ten Tournament final, adding an extra layer of satisfaction for the Buckeyes. Head coach Kevin McGuff praised his team’s effort, stating, “We showed tremendous heart and determination. This win is a testament to our hard work and commitment.”

With this victory, Ohio State advances to the semifinals of the Big Ten Tournament, marking their third semifinal appearance in the last four seasons. The Buckeyes are set to face No. 2 UCLA, a team that previously defeated them during the regular season, making the upcoming match a highly anticipated rematch. “We’re excited for the challenge ahead. We know UCLA is a tough opponent, but we’re ready to compete,” McMahon added.

Iowa’s coach, Jan Jensen, expressed pride in her team’s performance despite the heartbreaking loss. “We fought hard and showed resilience. This tournament experience is invaluable for our young team,” Jensen said, highlighting the positives from their season. Her sentiments reflect the competitive nature of the Big Ten, where every game is a battle and every team has the potential to shine.

As the tournament progresses, Ohio State’s victory serves as a reminder of the intense competition within the Big Ten. The Buckeyes have shown that they are not only capable of winning but are also prepared to face any challenge that comes their way. With their eyes set on the tournament title, fans can expect to see more thrilling moments from this talented Ohio State squad.

In conclusion, the Ohio State women’s basketball team has once again proven their mettle in a high-stakes environment. Their ability to hold off Iowa in the final moments and secure a spot in the semifinals is a testament to their skill, teamwork, and determination. As they prepare for their next challenge against UCLA, the Buckeyes remain focused on their goal of capturing the Big Ten Tournament title. The excitement of postseason play continues, and fans are eager to see how this remarkable journey unfolds.