Thrilling Overtime Victory for Michigan Wolverines
In a thrilling encounter on Wednesday night, the No. 8 Michigan Wolverines edged out 13th-ranked Ohio State with a narrow 88-86 overtime victory, thanks to a stunning performance by Olivia Olson. Olson recorded a personal best of 31 points and played a pivotal role in securing the win with a crucial jumper that found the basket with only 3.2 seconds remaining in overtime.
“Olivia Olson was phenomenal tonight, leading the team when it mattered most.”
Despite a valiant effort by Ohio State’s Chance Gray, who attempted a long-range shot from 30 feet on the resulting play, her effort came too late, missing the buzzer. Throughout the game, Olson also contributed significantly to her team’s cause, pulling down nine rebounds and dishing out four assists. This victory marked the Wolverines’ record-setting 14th win in Big Ten play, improving their overall record to 23-5 (14-3 in the conference).
Dramatic Lead Changes and Comebacks
The game witnessed dramatic lead changes, particularly in the final minutes. Michigan found itself on the back foot after trailing 86-78 with just over a minute to play. However, they mounted a remarkable comeback with a flurry of scoring, led by Macy Brown, who typically averages just 2.1 points per game. Brown tallied eight points in quick succession, including two shots from beyond the arc, leveling the score at 86.
For the Buckeyes, Jaloni Cambridge also shone brightly, scoring 22 points and converting three crucial free throws with just 0.6 seconds to spare in the fourth quarter, which sent the game into overtime. In a tense moment, at 74-71 in favor of Michigan with only 2.2 seconds left on the clock, Brooke Quarles Daniels attempted to inbound the ball but had her pass deflected by Ohio State’s Elsa Lemmila. Cambridge capitalized on the loose ball, earning a trip to the free-throw line after being fouled while attempting a corner 3-pointer.
Ohio State’s Challenges and Next Matches
Ohio State, whose record now stands at 23-6 (12-5 in Big Ten), encountered some challenges, having lost three out of their last four games. Gray contributed a solid 19 points while Lemmila added a double-double with 11 points and 15 rebounds.
Ohio State began the game strong, establishing a decisive 28-14 lead after draining four 3-pointers in the first quarter. The Wolverines fought back with an impressive 18-4 run, leading to a tie at 32 before halftime, although they trailed 40-39 at the break.
As the second half unfolded, Michigan took the initiative, launching an 11-3 scoring spree. Swords’ 3-pointer in the fourth quarter helped the Wolverines surge ahead 67-58 before the thrilling conclusion.
Next up, Michigan will host the 14th-ranked Maryland on Saturday, while Ohio State will visit the 15th-ranked Michigan State on Sunday.
Stay tuned for further updates on women’s college basketball, including poll alerts on the AP Top 25.
