OSU then-freshman guard Kelsey Mitchell (3) dribbles the ball during a game against Indiana on Feb. 8 at the Schottenstein Center. Credit: Lantern File Photo In a much-anticipated matchup of highly ranked opponents, the No. 6 Ohio State women’s basketball team is primed to open its season on Friday against No. 2 South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina, at 7 p.m. The Buckeyes, looking to build on a 24-11 record from last season which ended with a loss to North Carolina in the second round of the NCAA tournament, return all five starters, including last season’s co-Big Ten Player of the Year, sophomore guard Kelsey Mitchell. South Carolina boasts three returning starters, including senior guard Tiffany Mitchell, a two-time SEC Player of the Year. The Gamecocks also add a preseason All-American honorable mention in sophomore forward A’ja Wilson to the lineup. Last year, South Carolina’s season ended after a run to the Final Four, losing to Notre Dame 66-65. However, rather than hyping up the game, Kelsey Mitchell stressed how she has been preparing for the 2015-16 season without certain opponents in mind. “You’ve got to be prepared for everything,” she said. “I had no clue, honestly, that we were going to play (South Carolina and No. 1 Connecticut), but you’ve got to prepare before that.” Since South Carolina returns three starters, including its top three scorers and rebounders, the Buckeyes understand they will need to step up on defense and in the post. Last season, OSU’s shallow depth, decimated by injuries, forced it to rely on its offense. Coach Kevin McGuff and his players said they understand their defense must improve. …
Continue Reading: Ohio State women’s basketball to begin season with major test at No. 2 South Carolina
