COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio State Buckeyes junior forward Cotie McMahon has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning both the prestigious Maxwell Award and the Lisa Leslie Award, marking only the second time in Ohio State women’s basketball history that a player has secured both honors in the same season.
COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio State Buckeyes junior forward Cotie McMahon has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning both the prestigious Maxwell Award and the Lisa Leslie Award, marking only the second time in Ohio State women’s basketball history that a player has secured both honors in the same season. This historic accomplishment cements McMahon’s place among the elite players in women’s college basketball and highlights her tremendous impact on the court.
A Season to Remember
McMahon’s dominance throughout the season was evident from the opening game. As a junior forward, she showcased her versatility, scoring prowess, defensive intensity, and leadership skills, helping propel the Buckeyes to a successful season. Her consistent performances made her a standout player, drawing attention from analysts, coaches, and basketball enthusiasts across the country.
Throughout the season, McMahon averaged an impressive 21.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Her ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game made her an indispensable asset for Ohio State. Whether executing clutch plays, securing crucial rebounds, or setting up her teammates with precision passing, McMahon’s all-around excellence set her apart.
The Maxwell Award: A Recognition of Excellence
The Maxwell Award, traditionally given to the best overall player in college basketball, is one of the most prestigious individual honors in the sport. Winning this award places McMahon in an exclusive group of elite players who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and impact on their teams.
McMahon’s ability to control the game, take over in crucial moments, and deliver when her team needed her most were all factors that contributed to her receiving the Maxwell Award. Her combination of scoring ability, court vision, and defensive tenacity made her an obvious choice for this honor.
The Lisa Leslie Award: Honoring the Best Center in College Basketball
The Lisa Leslie Award, named after the legendary WNBA center, is presented annually to the best center in women’s college basketball. Although McMahon plays as a forward, her physical dominance, rebounding capabilities, and ability to play inside the paint with power and finesse earned her this recognition.
McMahon’s post moves, defensive presence, and shot-blocking ability allowed her to thrive against some of the best competition in the nation. She played with the heart of a center, battling against taller opponents, using her agility to outmaneuver defenders, and demonstrating an innate ability to finish at the rim under pressure.
Impact on Ohio State Women’s Basketball
McMahon’s contributions extended beyond individual statistics and awards. She served as the emotional leader of the Buckeyes, inspiring her teammates with her relentless work ethic and competitive spirit. Under her leadership, Ohio State reached the NCAA tournament’s Elite Eight, a feat that had not been achieved in recent years.
Her presence elevated the team’s performance, providing younger players with a role model and giving fans a player to rally behind. The Buckeyes played with an increased sense of confidence, knowing they had one of the best players in the nation leading them.
A Legacy in the Making
Winning both the Maxwell Award and the Lisa Leslie Award in the same season is a testament to McMahon’s greatness and the impact she has had on women’s college basketball. She joins an exclusive club of players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Her achievement not only adds to Ohio State’s storied basketball history but also sets a high standard for future generations of players.
As McMahon continues her basketball journey, whether she decides to enter the WNBA Draft or return for another season at Ohio State, her legacy is already cemented as one of the best to ever wear a Buckeyes uniform.
Looking Ahead
With her remarkable achievements, McMahon has positioned herself as a top prospect for the WNBA. Scouts and analysts have already begun discussing her potential at the professional level. Her ability to adapt to different styles of play, combined with her work ethic and leadership qualities, make her a highly coveted player.
Should she enter the WNBA, she is expected to be a high draft pick, bringing her skills and competitive mindset to the next level. Her ability to contribute on both ends of the court, along with her strong basketball IQ, ensures that she will continue to make an impact at the professional level.
Cotie McMahon’s historic season, marked by winning both the Maxwell and Lisa Leslie Awards, is a testament to her skill, determination, and leadership. She has not only solidified her place in Ohio State women’s basketball history but also left an unforgettable mark on the sport as a whole. As she prepares for the next chapter of her career, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see what comes next for this extraordinary talent.