Ohio State women’s basketball stars, Taylor Thierry and Cotie McMahon, have been named to notable Naismith Award watch lists. McMahon, a junior forward, has been placed on the top 10 of the Cheryl Miller Award for the best small forward, while Thierry, a senior, landed in the top 15 for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year honor.
McMahon has stepped into a prominent leadership role for the Buckeyes, leading the team with a career-high 16.5 points per game. Her improved perimeter shooting, including a notable increase in her three-point shooting efficiency, has been a highlight of her development. She has already surpassed her personal best for three-pointers in a season and has added new moves to her offensive game, including a turnaround jumper.
Meanwhile, Thierry’s inclusion on the Defensive Player of the Year watch list comes after a standout defensive season. The senior is known for her aggressive play, with 2.4 steals per game, ranking second in the Big Ten. She was instrumental in Ohio State’s January 8th comeback victory over Michigan, showcasing her defensive skills with a key steal and a crucial block in the final minutes of the game.
Both players have also been recognized by the United States Basketball Writers Association, with McMahon earning a spot on the Ann Meyers-Drysdale Award watch list. Thierry’s inclusion further solidifies her status as one of the Big Ten’s top defenders.
