In a significant development for women’s college basketball, Cotie McMahon, a standout forward from Ohio State University, has committed to transfer to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) for the upcoming 2025-2026 season. This move, first reported by On3sports, marks a pivotal shift in McMahon’s collegiate career and is poised to have a substantial impact on both the Ole Miss Rebels and the broader NCAA women’s basketball landscape.
Cotie McMahon’s Stellar Career at Ohio State
Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, McMahon has been a cornerstone of the Ohio State Buckeyes’ success over the past three seasons. Standing at 6 feet tall, she made an immediate impact as a freshman during the 2022-2023 season, earning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award. Her freshman year statistics were impressive, averaging 15.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, with a shooting percentage of 51% from the field. She started all 36 games that season, demonstrating her durability and importance to the team.
McMahon’s sophomore year saw her continue to excel, leading the team in rebounding with 6.3 rebounds per game and ranking second in scoring with 14.4 points per game. Her performances earned her All-Big Ten First Team honors from both the league’s coaches and media. Notably, she recorded a career-high 33 points and 12 rebounds in a game against Iowa on January 21, 2024, showcasing her ability to dominate against top-tier competition.
In her junior year, McMahon maintained her high level of play, averaging 16.6 points per game and earning an AP All-American Honorable Mention for the second consecutive season. Her consistent performance solidified her reputation as one of the premier forwards in college basketball.
The Transfer Portal and McMahon’s Decision
The NCAA transfer portal has become an increasingly utilized avenue for student-athletes seeking new opportunities, and the 2025 offseason has been particularly active. McMahon’s decision to enter the transfer portal and subsequently commit to Ole Miss is indicative of the dynamic nature of collegiate athletics, where players seek environments that align with their personal and professional aspirations.
While specific reasons for McMahon’s transfer have not been publicly disclosed, such decisions often involve considerations like coaching styles, team dynamics, academic opportunities, and personal growth. Ole Miss’s recent efforts to bolster their roster through the transfer portal likely played a role in attracting a player of McMahon’s caliber.
Impact on Ole Miss Rebels
Ole Miss has been proactive in strengthening its women’s basketball program, and McMahon’s addition is a testament to their commitment to competing at the highest level. Her versatility as a forward, combined with her experience and proven track record, is expected to provide an immediate boost to the Rebels’ performance.
McMahon’s ability to score, rebound, and facilitate makes her a multifaceted threat on the court. Her leadership qualities, honed during her tenure at Ohio State, will be invaluable to a team aiming to make a significant impact in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and nationally.
Broader Implications for NCAA Women’s Basketball
McMahon’s transfer is part of a broader trend of high-profile movements within women’s college basketball. The 2025 offseason has seen several notable players enter the transfer portal, reshaping the competitive landscape for the upcoming season. For instance, Ta’Niya Latson, the nation’s leading scorer from Florida State, transferred to South Carolina, while Olivia Miles, previously projected as the No. 2 WNBA Draft pick, opted to transfer to TCU instead of turning professional. These moves underscore the evolving nature of team compositions and the increasing competitiveness among programs to attract top talent.
The influx of talent into programs like Ole Miss suggests a shift in power dynamics within women’s college basketball. Teams that have traditionally been considered underdogs are now positioning themselves as formidable contenders, promising a more unpredictable and exciting season ahead.
Looking Ahead
As McMahon transitions to Ole Miss, expectations will be high for her to replicate and build upon her successes at Ohio State. Her integration into the Rebels’ system will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike, eager to see how her presence influences the team’s performance.
For Ohio State, McMahon’s departure represents a significant loss, and the Buckeyes will need to strategize on filling the void left by such a pivotal player. This development also highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in collegiate sports, as teams must continually adjust to roster changes.
In conclusion, Cotie McMahon’s commitment to Ole Miss is a landmark event in the 2025 women’s college basketball offseason. It reflects the dynamic nature of the sport and sets the stage for an intriguing 2025-2026 season, with fans eagerly anticipating the impact of these transformative player movements.
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