In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the No. 15/12 Ohio State Buckeyes (5-1) triumphed over Cornell (2-4) on Sunday afternoon inside the electric atmosphere of Value City Arena. The Buckeyes secured an impressive 83-40 victory, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the court.
The game kicked off with a competitive spirit as Cornell struck first, but the Buckeyes swiftly responded, embarking on a 9-0 run that set the tone for the match. By the end of the first quarter, Ohio State had established a 22-11 lead, fueled by runs and strategic plays.
The second quarter turned into a defensive masterpiece for the Buckeyes. Ohio State outscored Cornell 23-2, a performance marked by stifling defense that held the Big Red to a mere 1-of-12 (.083) shooting from the floor. This exceptional defensive effort allowed Ohio State to head into halftime with an imposing 45-13 lead, firmly in control of the game.
Rebeka Mikulášiková was a standout player for the Buckeyes, becoming the first in the game to reach double figures with 14 points. Celeste Taylor showcased her playmaking abilities, recording a season-high six assists in the first half and finishing the game with a total of seven assists. Other key contributors included Jacy Sheldon (10), Cotie McMahon (14), and Taylor Thierry (13), all scoring in double figures. Taiyier Parks played a pivotal role on the boards, leading the Buckeyes with eight rebounds.
The third quarter saw Cornell making efforts to bounce back, but Ohio State maintained control, extending their lead to 62-24 with a 10-0 run. The Buckeyes closed out the quarter with a 71-30 lead, setting the stage for a final period marked by back-and-forth exchanges.
The fourth quarter saw a competitive battle, with neither team stringing together more than two baskets in a row. Ohio State ultimately secured a 12-10 edge in the quarter, closing out the game with an 83-40 victory, highlighted by a three-pointer from Emma Shumate.
Noteworthy achievements and milestones were reached in this commanding performance. The Buckeyes allowed a mere two points in the second quarter, setting a program record for the lowest total points allowed in the second quarter. Cornell's 13 first-half points represented the fewest allowed by Ohio State in the first half this season.
Ohio State's defensive prowess was further highlighted by the team's season-best 14 steals, contributing to a total of at least 10 steals for the fourth time this season. The Buckeyes forced Cornell into 26 turnovers, showcasing their ability to disrupt the opposing team's offense.
Head Coach Kevin McGuff expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, acknowledging moments of excellence but also emphasizing the need for sustained effort throughout the game. Graduate guard Celeste Taylor and sophomore forward Cotie McMahon provided insights into the team's defensive strategies and the importance of versatility in their gameplay.
Looking ahead, the Buckeyes are set to face a challenging matchup against No. 19/21 Tennessee next Sunday, with a 5 p.m. ET tip-off. The game will be broadcast on ESPN and AM1460, offering fans another exciting opportunity to witness the prowess of the Ohio State women's basketball team.
