NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In an exciting matchup on Sunday, Cotie McMahon led the No. 12 Ohio State team to a narrow 67-63 win over Belmont, contributing significantly with 21 points. With just 12 seconds remaining in the game, Jaloni Cambridge clinched the victory by making a jumper followed by two successful free throws, sealing the win for the Buckeyes.

Ohio State (3-0) found itself behind with a score of 59-50, thanks to a surge from Belmont (2-2) sparked by Carmyn Harrison’s consecutive baskets and a three-pointer from Kendall Holmes, marking the Bruins’ largest lead of the game with only 5:21 on the clock.

Responding to the challenge, McMahon quickly reduced the deficit with a layup, while Chance Gray added a three-pointer and another layup, powering the Buckeyes to a 10-0 scoring run that gave them a one-point advantage with three minutes left. Kennedy Cambridge then made a crucial three-pointer, increasing Ohio State’s lead to four points after Tuti Jones from Belmont missed a shot.

As the game progressed, Holmes and Emily La Chapell managed to convert two free throws each, bringing the score to 63-63 with only 33 seconds to play, which set the stage for Jaloni Cambridge’s decisive final moments. McMahon had an impressive shooting performance, knocking down eight of 19 attempts, including two from beyond the arc. Gray contributed with 13 points while Taylor Thierry added 11 points and collected seven rebounds. Meanwhile, Jaloni Cambridge rounded out her stats with 10 points, six assists, and six turnovers.

Holmes was the standout player for Belmont, recording 19 points and eight rebounds before fouling out, while La Chapell provided additional support with 13 points and six boards. Throughout the first quarter, McMahon helped propel the Buckeyes to a four-point lead by scoring half of their 20 points.

Belmont, however, ended the second quarter strong, going scoreless for the last 2:37 and watching their one-point lead dissolve into a 36-32 deficit by halftime. The Bruins continued to build momentum in the third quarter, with Holmes nailing two baskets and La Chapell scoring right at the buzzer, completing an 8-0 run that gave Belmont a 50-47 lead heading into the final quarter.