In Columbus, Ohio, Jaloni Cambridge delivered an impressive performance, scoring a career-high 33 points to propel No. 12 Ohio State to an 89-78 victory over No. 23 Michigan State on Wednesday night. Ajae Petty contributed significantly with 23 points and 15 rebounds, boosting the Buckeyes in this crucial matchup.
Cambridge, who recently earned the Tamika Catchings National Freshman of the Week honor, was instrumental in the third quarter. Her 14 points during the period included the Buckeyes’ closing nine points, helping extend their 13-point halftime advantage to a commanding 79-59 lead entering the final quarter.
Despite a spirited comeback from the Spartans, who launched a 13-0 run to narrow the gap to seven with four minutes left, Ohio State responded effectively. Cotie McMahon scored with a layup, followed by a jumper from Cambridge to fend off the Michigan State challenge.
Cambridge showcased remarkable accuracy by sinking 5 of 9 attempts from beyond the arc and shooting 12-for-22 overall. Meanwhile, Petty achieved her highest rebound tally this season with 15, and her playmaking was evident with a season-best six assists. McMahon also contributed 17 points to the Buckeyes’ tally, boosting their record to 24-4 overall and 13-4 in the Big Ten.
Michigan State’s Theryn Hallock impressed with a career-high of her own, netting 29 points. Grace VanSlooten scored 19, while Julia Ayrault and Jaddan Simmons chipped in with 11 and 10 points, respectively, for the Spartans, who now hold a 20-8 overall record, including 10-7 in conference play.
In the first half, Ohio State’s dominance was clear as Petty scored 17 and Cambridge added 15 points. This offensive surge helped the Buckeyes achieve a 54-41 lead by halftime after shooting 67% in the initial quarter and amassing 31 points.
Looking ahead, Ohio State is set to conclude their regular season with a challenging game at No. 19 Maryland on Sunday, as they vie for third place in the conference standings. Michigan State, aiming for fifth place, will wrap up their regular season with a home game against Minnesota on Saturday.
