Monday, November 9
Athens, Ohio
11 a.m. ET
vs
Otterbein
11/8/2026 2:10:00 PM | Women's Basketball
ATHENS, Ohio – The Ohio women's basketball team (1-0, 0-0 MAC) is set to host its third-straight Rufus Field Trip Game against Otterbein (1-0, 0-0 OAC) on Monday, Nov. 9 in the Convocation Center. Tip-off is set for 11 a.m. ET and the game will be available to watch on ESPN+. The game is FREE ADMISSION for all fans.
PARKING UPDATES & CHANGES
Due to Education Day activities, several parking areas near the Convocation Center will be reserved for bus parking. Fans attending the game should plan accordingly.
Available Fan Parking
Parking Closures
Lots 127, 128 and 129, commonly referred to as the Blue Lot on game days, will be closed to accommodate buses for Education Day. Fans should also be aware that the game will take place during peak campus operating hours. With regular university activity occurring alongside Education Day, parking availability may be more limited than usual. Fans are encouraged to allow additional time to park and arrive at the Convocation Center before tipoff.
Please review the campus parking map for reference. Ohio Athletics appreciates fans' patience and cooperation as the department welcomes students to campus for Education Day.
RUFUS FIELD TRIP GAME / EDUCATION DAY
For Education Day, Ohio Athletics will open its doors to all kids, eighth grade and younger, for the 2026 Rufus's Field Trip Game at the Ohio women's basketball game versus Otterbein. Rufus's Field Trip game provides students, chaperones, and drivers FREE admission for a one-of-a-kind OHIO Bobcats women's basketball experience. More information is available HERE.
SCOUTING OHIO
Ohio has a 1-0 overall and 0-0 conference record heading into its game with Otterbein.
Ohio averages 57.0 PPG; shooting 29.3 percent from the field, 25.0 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line. The Bobcats average 40.0 rebounds, 11.0 assists, 10.0 steals and 3.0 blocks per game. Ohio has forced opponents to give up 28.0 turnovers per game and averages 20.0 points off turnovers.
Ohio's opponents average 46.0 PPG; shooting 26.9 percent from the field, 23.5 percent from the arc and 66.7 percent from the line. Opponents average 45.0 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 10.0 steals and 2.0 blocks per game. Opponents have forced Ohio to give up 20.0 turnovers per game and average 16.0 points off turnovers.
SCOUTING OTTERBEIN
Otterbein has a 1-0 overall and 0-0 conference record heading into its game at Ohio.
Otterbein averages 80.0 PPG; shooting 51.7 percent from the field, 35.7 percent from the arc and 61.9 percent from the line. The Cardinals average 44.0 rebounds, 21.0 assists, 13.0 steals and 4.0 blocks per game. Otterbein has forced opponents to give up 24.0 turnovers per game and average 28.0 points off turnovers.
Otterbein's opponents average 43.0 PPG; shooting 33.3 percent from the field, 13.3 percent from the arc and 43.8 percent from the line. Opponents average 26.0 rebounds, 10.0 assists, 7.0 steals and 3.0 blocks per game. Opponents have forced Otterbein to give up 19.0 turnovers per game and average 15.0 points off turnovers.
LAST TIME / ALL TIME VS OTTERBEIN
This is the first meeting between the Bobcats and the Cardinals.
LAST TIME OUT (ULM; NOV. 2, 2026)
The Ohio women's basketball team (1-0, 0-0 MAC) defeated Louisiana Monroe (0-1, 0-0 SBC) 57-46 in the first round of the MAC-SBC Challenge on Monday, Nov. 2 in the Convocation Center.
The Bobcat shot 29.3 percent from the field, 25.0 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line. Ohio finished with 40 rebounds, 11 assists, 10 steals and three blocks. The Bobcats forced Louisiana Monroe to give up 28 turnovers.
Redshirt junior Monica Williams (Indianapolis, Ind.) led the Bobcats in scoring with 19 points, finishing 3-for-6 from the arc and 6-for-8 from the line. Williams added three rebounds, one steal and a team-high three assists. Junior Gigi Bower (Powell, Ohio) finished with 10 points, the second most on the team.
Freshman Kamie Ellis (Port Charlotte, Fla.) led the team in rebounding with eight boards in addition to eight points. Senior Asiah Baxter (Indianapolis, Ind.) added six rebounds while senior Antonicia Moultrie (Nassau, Bahamas) and junior Danni Scully (Park Ridge, Ill.) finished with five boards each.
Moultrie led the team in steals with four total. Bower and senior Bailey Tabeling (Seymour, Ind.) added two steals each. Tabeling also finished with a team-high three assists.
It was a slow start to the game for both teams. Ohio got on the board first with a three-pointer by Williams. With just over three minute left in the first quarter, the Bobcats led the Warhawks 7-6. The first period ended with a three-point basket at the buzzer for Ohio, courtesy of Williams. The Bobcats led the Warhawks 14-6 heading into the second quarter.
By halfway through the second quarter, Ohio had maintained its lead with a 19-11 advantage over Louisiana Monroe. The Bobcats extend their lead to 21-13 with 2:58 left in the half. The two teams continued to trade points until the end of the second quarter. Heading into the locker room, Ohio held a 26-19 lead over Louisiana Monroe.
It was a long third quarter for both teams. Ohio and Louisiana Monroe both went over two minutes without a basket. With just over three minutes to go in the quarter, the Bobcats led the Warhawks 37-28. Ohio concluded the third quarter with a 46-34 lead over Louisiana Monroe.
The Bobcats extended their lead to 50-39 just under three minutes into the fourth quarter. Louisiana Monroe cut Ohio's lead to 50-42 with 6:14 left on the clock. The Bobcats held off the Warhawks' offense, eventually extending their lead to 57-44. Ohio went on to defeat Louisiana Monroe 57-46 and earn its first win of the season.
2026-27 TEAM STATISTICAL CATEGORY LEADERS (TOP 3)
Points: Monica Williams (19), Gigi Bower (10), Antoncia Moultrie (8), Kamie Ellis (8)
FG Made: Monica Williams (5), Gigi Bower (3), Kamie Ellis (3), Antonicia Moultrie (2), Bailey Tabeling (2)
3PT Made: Monica Williams (3), Gigi Bower (2), Kamie Ellis (2), Asiah Baxter (1)
FT Made: Monica Williams (6), Antonicia Moultrie (4), Gigi Bower (2), Bailey Tabeling (2)
Rebounds: Kamie Ellis (8), Asiah Baxter (6), Antonicia Moultrie (5), Danni Scully (5)
Assists: Monica Williams (3), Bailey Tabeling (3), Kamie Ellis (2), Gigi Bower (1), Antonicia Moultrie (1), Asiah Baxter (1)
Blocks: Antonicia Moultrie (1), Kamie Ellis (1), Bailey Tabeling (1)
Steals: Antonicia Moultrie (4), Gigi Bower (2), Bailey Tabeling (2), Monica Williams (1), Asiah Baxter (1)
Minutes Played: Monica Williams (36), Bailey Tabeling (33), Antonicia Moultrie (31)
YEAR FOUR: BAILEY TABELING
Entering her fourth year with the Bobcats, senior Bailey Tabeling is once again expected to be Ohio's top performer on the court this season. The 2026-27 Preseason All-MAC First Team honoree is a threat in the paint, at the free throw line and especially beyond the arc. Last year was Tabeling's best season yet, proven by her selection to the 2025-26 All-MAC Second Team. One of her major accomplishments included reaching the 1,000 points milestone at Ball State (Feb. 28). Tabeling finished the season with 464 points (14.5 PG); shooting 38.8 percent from the field, 31.3 percent from the arc and 74.8 percent from the line. She also ranked first on the team for assists (3.1 PG), steals (2.3 PG) and blocks (0.5 PG). Tabeling also ranked third on the team for rebounds (4.0 PG).
OHIO'S UNSUNG HERO: ASIAH BAXTER
Senior Asiah Baxter's contributions are not always visible on the final box score, but she is easily one of the most important players on the floor. Baxter's leadership on and off the court has directly contributed to the program's success. After only playing in 12 games as a freshman, Baxter's last two seasons have proven how vital she is to the program's success. In 2025-26, she started and played in all 32 games last season, ranking second on the team for minutes played (26.9 PG). She also ranked second on the team for rebounds (4.6 PG) and third for steals (1.7 PG). Baxter scored 223 points (7.0 PG); shooting 41.6 percent from the field, 34.5 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line.
THE MONICA WILLIAMS WAY
Just like Baxter and Tabeling, redshirt junior Monica Williams is back for her fourth season with Ohio. Williams immediately made a mark on the program as a freshman, but faced an obstacle in her second year after suffering a season-ending injury. In 2025-26, she returned to the court for the first time since December in 2024. Last year, she transitioned from starter to Ohio's first player off the bench. During the 2025-26 season, Williams played in 31 and started in three games. She scored 230 points (7.4 PG); shooting 37.7 percent from the field, 41.3 percent from the arc and 60.4 percent from the line. Williams ranked third on the team for assists (1.7 PG) and free throws made.
COMING OFF THE BENCH
One major key to Ohio's success in the 2025-26 season was its depth on the bench. As a team, the Bobcats finished the season ranked 23rd in the NCAA for bench points per game. Out of the 2,263 points scored by the Bobcats last season, Ohio's bench was responsible for 805 points. Several of Ohio's top contributors off the bench from last year return this season including redshirt junior Monica Williams, sophomore ReRe Jennings, senior Antonicia Moultrie as well as juniors Gigi Bower and Danni Scully.
2025-26 SEASON RECAP
The Ohio women's basketball exceeded expectations during the 2025-26 season with an 18-14 overall and 11-7 conference record. The Bobcats more than doubled their win total from the 2024-25 season and won its most games since 2019-20. Ohio also achieved 11 conference wins for the first time since the 2020-21 season. After being picked 10th in the preseason poll and missing out on last year's tournament, the Bobcats earned the No. 5 seed at the 2026 MAC Tournament. After falling in the MAC semifinals, Ohio's season was not done yet. The Bobcats earned their first WNIT bid since the 2021-22 season and was the only women's program to represent the Mid-American Conference in the tournament.
Ohio concluded the 2025-26 season being ranked in the top 25 nationally for several statistical categories. Some of statistical categories include: Three Pointers Per Game (4th), Steals Per Game (14th), Turnovers Forced Per Game (18th) and Bench Points Per Game (23rd).
VETERAN BOBCATS
The Ohio women's basketball team has 11 players returning for the 2026-27 season. The returning group of players includes two sophomores, six juniors (three redshirt juniors) and four seniors.
Among Ohio's returners is last year's top performer and consistent standout, senior Bailey Tabeling. Tabeling enters her fourth season with the Bobcats. In 2025-26, Tabeling led the team is nearly all statistical categories. She played and started in all 32 games, averaging 30.7 minutes per game. Tabeling's scored a team-high 464 points (14.5 PG); shooting 38.8 percent from the field, 31.3 percent from the arc and 74.8 percent from the line. She also compiled a team-best 97 assists (3.1 PG), 73 steals (2.3 PG), 17 blocks (0.5 PG) and ranked third on the team for rebounds with 127 total (4.0 PG). Following her performance in the regular season, Tabeling was named to the 2025-26 All-MAC Second Team.
Tabeling finished the season with 23 double-figure point games in addition to five 20-point games and her first 30-point game of her career. She also led the team in scoring in 15 games and had two double-doubles. Tabeling also led the team in assists in 15 games and in steals in 17 games last season.
Prior to the start of this season, Tabeling was named to the 2026-27 Preseason All-MAC First Team.
Tabeling's classmates, senior Asiah Baxter and redshirt junior Monica Williams, also enter their fourth year as Bobcats. Tabeling, Baxter & Williams all joined the team as freshmen prior to the 2023-24 season.
Baxter is often referred to as Ohio's "unsung hero," especially during the 2025-26 season. She started and played in all 32 games last season, ranking second on the team for minutes played (850/26.9 PG). The senior also ranked second on the team for rebounds with 148 (4.6 PG) and third for steals with 53 (1.7 PG). Baxter scored 223 points (7.0 PG); shooting 41.6 percent from the field, 34.5 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line.
After suffering a season-ending injury early on during the 2024-25 season, Williams finally returned to the court for Ohio in 2025-26. The redshirt junior has been an impactful player since stepping on the court as a freshman. Last season, Williams played in 31 and started in three games. She scored 230 points (7.4 PG); shooting 37.7 percent from the field, 41.3 percent from the arc and 60.4 percent from the line. Williams ranked third on the team for assists with 54 (1.7 PG) and free throws made.
Another strong returner for Ohio, redshirt junior Bella Ranallo, played her first year with the Bobcats last season after transferring from Clemson. Ranallo is valuable at the point, having played and started in 29 games. She amassed 724 minutes played, averaging 25.0 minutes per game before suffering a season-ending injury in Ohio's last home game of the regular season. In 2025-26, Ranallo averaged 11.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game.
Other key returners for the Bobcats include senior Antonicia Moultrie, juniors Gigi Bower and Danni Scully as well as sophomore ReRe Jennings.
WELCOME TO ATHENS
Ohio welcomes five newcomers, including four freshmen and one junior transfer to its 2026-27 roster.
Sienna Allen (Freshman; Portsmouth, Ohio): A 6-1 guard, Allen was a four-year letterwinner for basketball at Portsmouth High School. Allen led Portsmouth to several titles, including the back-to-back Ohio Division 5 State Titles (2024-25, 2025-26), and garnered multiple accolades along the way. Allen's accolades include being named 2024-25 Division 5 Player of the Year (Prep Girls Hoops), 2024-25 District 14 Player of the Year and 2024-25 All-Southeast District Player of the Year. Allen was selected First Team All-Ohio, First Team All-District, First Team All-OVC and District 14 First Team multiple times throughout her career. She also is a multi-time OVC Player of the Year, and OVC Champion.
Irene Asensio Mañosa (Junior; Barcelona, Spain): A 5-8 guard, Asensio Mañosa joins the Bobcats after playing two season at UTEP. She played in 45 games and made 10 starts; averaging 13.7 minutes, 2.1 points, 1.3 rebounds per game. Asensio Mañosa compiled 95 points with the Miners; shooting 29.0 percent from the field, 21.6 percent from the arc and 80.0 percent from the line. Internationally, she has played for Spain's national team and earned a silver medal at the 2024 FIBA U18 Women's Eurobasket.
Kamie Ellis (Freshman; Port Charlotte, Fla.): A 5-9 guard, Ellis was a combined four-year letterwinner for basketball at Miami Country Day (2024-25, 2025-26) and Charlotte High (2022-23, 2023-24). She helped Miami Country Day to a 2024-25 State Championship title. Ellis played in 76 games and compiled 915 points, 313 rebounds, 224 assists, 246 steals and 24 blocks.
Aubrey Pepper (Freshman; Athens, Ohio): A 5-9 guard, Pepper played basketball Warren High School. During her career, she was named an All-Ohio Honorable Mention. Pepper averaged 14.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 3.5 steals and 0.8 blocks per game.
Blossom Wallace (Freshman; Pickerington, Ohio): A 6-0 forward, Wallace was a four-year letterwinner for basketball Pickerington Central High School. As a freshman, she averaged 6.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game. As a sophomore, Wallace averaged 8.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game. As a junior, she averaged 10.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.0 steals per game. The 2025 State Champion has made two state final four appearances (2023, 2024). Wallace earned several accolades including being named 2024-25 DI Ohio Honorable Mention and 2024-25 First Team OCC.
2026-27 MAC PRESEASON POLL & PRESEASON ALL-MAC
The Ohio women's basketball team was fifth in the 2026-27 Mid-American Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, as announced by the league on Tuesday, Oct. 20. In addition, senior Bailey Tabeling (Seymour, Ind.) was selected to the 2026-27 Preseason All-MAC First Team.
Ohio's lone Preseason All-MAC selection, Tabeling, enters her fourth year as one of the Bobcats' top performers. During the 2025-26 season, she was named to the All-MAC Second Team. Tabeling played and started in 32 games, amassing 983 minutes and averaging 30.7 minutes per game. The senior finished the season shooting 38.8 percent from the field, 31.3 percent from the arc and 74.8 percent from the line. One of her top performances last season with a 33-point outing in Ohio's conference quarterfinal win over Central Michigan. Overall, Tabeling averaged 14.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists 2.3 steals and 0.5 blocks per game.
Ball State was selected as the predicted regular season champion, earning 111 points with five first-place votes. Miami was picked to finish second with 108 points and three first-place votes. UMass (1) and Toledo (2) also received first-place votes. Ball State (4), Toledo (4), Miami (3) and UMass (1) all received MAC Tournament Champion votes as well.
UP NEXT
The Bobcats will be back in action when they host Georgia on Saturday, Nov. 14 in the Convocation Center. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. ET and the game will be available to watch on ESPN+.
#OUohyeah
PARKING UPDATES & CHANGES
Due to Education Day activities, several parking areas near the Convocation Center will be reserved for bus parking. Fans attending the game should plan accordingly.
Available Fan Parking
- Lot 111: Available for staff and fans. Enter from the side of Parks Hall.
- Lot 133: Open for fan parking.
- Lot 132 (Peden Stadium): Available for fan parking.
Parking Closures
Lots 127, 128 and 129, commonly referred to as the Blue Lot on game days, will be closed to accommodate buses for Education Day. Fans should also be aware that the game will take place during peak campus operating hours. With regular university activity occurring alongside Education Day, parking availability may be more limited than usual. Fans are encouraged to allow additional time to park and arrive at the Convocation Center before tipoff.
Please review the campus parking map for reference. Ohio Athletics appreciates fans' patience and cooperation as the department welcomes students to campus for Education Day.
RUFUS FIELD TRIP GAME / EDUCATION DAY
For Education Day, Ohio Athletics will open its doors to all kids, eighth grade and younger, for the 2026 Rufus's Field Trip Game at the Ohio women's basketball game versus Otterbein. Rufus's Field Trip game provides students, chaperones, and drivers FREE admission for a one-of-a-kind OHIO Bobcats women's basketball experience. More information is available HERE.
SCOUTING OHIO
Ohio has a 1-0 overall and 0-0 conference record heading into its game with Otterbein.
Ohio averages 57.0 PPG; shooting 29.3 percent from the field, 25.0 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line. The Bobcats average 40.0 rebounds, 11.0 assists, 10.0 steals and 3.0 blocks per game. Ohio has forced opponents to give up 28.0 turnovers per game and averages 20.0 points off turnovers.
Ohio's opponents average 46.0 PPG; shooting 26.9 percent from the field, 23.5 percent from the arc and 66.7 percent from the line. Opponents average 45.0 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 10.0 steals and 2.0 blocks per game. Opponents have forced Ohio to give up 20.0 turnovers per game and average 16.0 points off turnovers.
SCOUTING OTTERBEIN
Otterbein has a 1-0 overall and 0-0 conference record heading into its game at Ohio.
Otterbein averages 80.0 PPG; shooting 51.7 percent from the field, 35.7 percent from the arc and 61.9 percent from the line. The Cardinals average 44.0 rebounds, 21.0 assists, 13.0 steals and 4.0 blocks per game. Otterbein has forced opponents to give up 24.0 turnovers per game and average 28.0 points off turnovers.
Otterbein's opponents average 43.0 PPG; shooting 33.3 percent from the field, 13.3 percent from the arc and 43.8 percent from the line. Opponents average 26.0 rebounds, 10.0 assists, 7.0 steals and 3.0 blocks per game. Opponents have forced Otterbein to give up 19.0 turnovers per game and average 15.0 points off turnovers.
LAST TIME / ALL TIME VS OTTERBEIN
This is the first meeting between the Bobcats and the Cardinals.
LAST TIME OUT (ULM; NOV. 2, 2026)
The Ohio women's basketball team (1-0, 0-0 MAC) defeated Louisiana Monroe (0-1, 0-0 SBC) 57-46 in the first round of the MAC-SBC Challenge on Monday, Nov. 2 in the Convocation Center.
The Bobcat shot 29.3 percent from the field, 25.0 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line. Ohio finished with 40 rebounds, 11 assists, 10 steals and three blocks. The Bobcats forced Louisiana Monroe to give up 28 turnovers.
Redshirt junior Monica Williams (Indianapolis, Ind.) led the Bobcats in scoring with 19 points, finishing 3-for-6 from the arc and 6-for-8 from the line. Williams added three rebounds, one steal and a team-high three assists. Junior Gigi Bower (Powell, Ohio) finished with 10 points, the second most on the team.
Freshman Kamie Ellis (Port Charlotte, Fla.) led the team in rebounding with eight boards in addition to eight points. Senior Asiah Baxter (Indianapolis, Ind.) added six rebounds while senior Antonicia Moultrie (Nassau, Bahamas) and junior Danni Scully (Park Ridge, Ill.) finished with five boards each.
Moultrie led the team in steals with four total. Bower and senior Bailey Tabeling (Seymour, Ind.) added two steals each. Tabeling also finished with a team-high three assists.
It was a slow start to the game for both teams. Ohio got on the board first with a three-pointer by Williams. With just over three minute left in the first quarter, the Bobcats led the Warhawks 7-6. The first period ended with a three-point basket at the buzzer for Ohio, courtesy of Williams. The Bobcats led the Warhawks 14-6 heading into the second quarter.
By halfway through the second quarter, Ohio had maintained its lead with a 19-11 advantage over Louisiana Monroe. The Bobcats extend their lead to 21-13 with 2:58 left in the half. The two teams continued to trade points until the end of the second quarter. Heading into the locker room, Ohio held a 26-19 lead over Louisiana Monroe.
It was a long third quarter for both teams. Ohio and Louisiana Monroe both went over two minutes without a basket. With just over three minutes to go in the quarter, the Bobcats led the Warhawks 37-28. Ohio concluded the third quarter with a 46-34 lead over Louisiana Monroe.
The Bobcats extended their lead to 50-39 just under three minutes into the fourth quarter. Louisiana Monroe cut Ohio's lead to 50-42 with 6:14 left on the clock. The Bobcats held off the Warhawks' offense, eventually extending their lead to 57-44. Ohio went on to defeat Louisiana Monroe 57-46 and earn its first win of the season.
2026-27 TEAM STATISTICAL CATEGORY LEADERS (TOP 3)
Points: Monica Williams (19), Gigi Bower (10), Antoncia Moultrie (8), Kamie Ellis (8)
FG Made: Monica Williams (5), Gigi Bower (3), Kamie Ellis (3), Antonicia Moultrie (2), Bailey Tabeling (2)
3PT Made: Monica Williams (3), Gigi Bower (2), Kamie Ellis (2), Asiah Baxter (1)
FT Made: Monica Williams (6), Antonicia Moultrie (4), Gigi Bower (2), Bailey Tabeling (2)
Rebounds: Kamie Ellis (8), Asiah Baxter (6), Antonicia Moultrie (5), Danni Scully (5)
Assists: Monica Williams (3), Bailey Tabeling (3), Kamie Ellis (2), Gigi Bower (1), Antonicia Moultrie (1), Asiah Baxter (1)
Blocks: Antonicia Moultrie (1), Kamie Ellis (1), Bailey Tabeling (1)
Steals: Antonicia Moultrie (4), Gigi Bower (2), Bailey Tabeling (2), Monica Williams (1), Asiah Baxter (1)
Minutes Played: Monica Williams (36), Bailey Tabeling (33), Antonicia Moultrie (31)
YEAR FOUR: BAILEY TABELING
Entering her fourth year with the Bobcats, senior Bailey Tabeling is once again expected to be Ohio's top performer on the court this season. The 2026-27 Preseason All-MAC First Team honoree is a threat in the paint, at the free throw line and especially beyond the arc. Last year was Tabeling's best season yet, proven by her selection to the 2025-26 All-MAC Second Team. One of her major accomplishments included reaching the 1,000 points milestone at Ball State (Feb. 28). Tabeling finished the season with 464 points (14.5 PG); shooting 38.8 percent from the field, 31.3 percent from the arc and 74.8 percent from the line. She also ranked first on the team for assists (3.1 PG), steals (2.3 PG) and blocks (0.5 PG). Tabeling also ranked third on the team for rebounds (4.0 PG).
OHIO'S UNSUNG HERO: ASIAH BAXTER
Senior Asiah Baxter's contributions are not always visible on the final box score, but she is easily one of the most important players on the floor. Baxter's leadership on and off the court has directly contributed to the program's success. After only playing in 12 games as a freshman, Baxter's last two seasons have proven how vital she is to the program's success. In 2025-26, she started and played in all 32 games last season, ranking second on the team for minutes played (26.9 PG). She also ranked second on the team for rebounds (4.6 PG) and third for steals (1.7 PG). Baxter scored 223 points (7.0 PG); shooting 41.6 percent from the field, 34.5 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line.
THE MONICA WILLIAMS WAY
Just like Baxter and Tabeling, redshirt junior Monica Williams is back for her fourth season with Ohio. Williams immediately made a mark on the program as a freshman, but faced an obstacle in her second year after suffering a season-ending injury. In 2025-26, she returned to the court for the first time since December in 2024. Last year, she transitioned from starter to Ohio's first player off the bench. During the 2025-26 season, Williams played in 31 and started in three games. She scored 230 points (7.4 PG); shooting 37.7 percent from the field, 41.3 percent from the arc and 60.4 percent from the line. Williams ranked third on the team for assists (1.7 PG) and free throws made.
COMING OFF THE BENCH
One major key to Ohio's success in the 2025-26 season was its depth on the bench. As a team, the Bobcats finished the season ranked 23rd in the NCAA for bench points per game. Out of the 2,263 points scored by the Bobcats last season, Ohio's bench was responsible for 805 points. Several of Ohio's top contributors off the bench from last year return this season including redshirt junior Monica Williams, sophomore ReRe Jennings, senior Antonicia Moultrie as well as juniors Gigi Bower and Danni Scully.
2025-26 SEASON RECAP
The Ohio women's basketball exceeded expectations during the 2025-26 season with an 18-14 overall and 11-7 conference record. The Bobcats more than doubled their win total from the 2024-25 season and won its most games since 2019-20. Ohio also achieved 11 conference wins for the first time since the 2020-21 season. After being picked 10th in the preseason poll and missing out on last year's tournament, the Bobcats earned the No. 5 seed at the 2026 MAC Tournament. After falling in the MAC semifinals, Ohio's season was not done yet. The Bobcats earned their first WNIT bid since the 2021-22 season and was the only women's program to represent the Mid-American Conference in the tournament.
Ohio concluded the 2025-26 season being ranked in the top 25 nationally for several statistical categories. Some of statistical categories include: Three Pointers Per Game (4th), Steals Per Game (14th), Turnovers Forced Per Game (18th) and Bench Points Per Game (23rd).
VETERAN BOBCATS
The Ohio women's basketball team has 11 players returning for the 2026-27 season. The returning group of players includes two sophomores, six juniors (three redshirt juniors) and four seniors.
Among Ohio's returners is last year's top performer and consistent standout, senior Bailey Tabeling. Tabeling enters her fourth season with the Bobcats. In 2025-26, Tabeling led the team is nearly all statistical categories. She played and started in all 32 games, averaging 30.7 minutes per game. Tabeling's scored a team-high 464 points (14.5 PG); shooting 38.8 percent from the field, 31.3 percent from the arc and 74.8 percent from the line. She also compiled a team-best 97 assists (3.1 PG), 73 steals (2.3 PG), 17 blocks (0.5 PG) and ranked third on the team for rebounds with 127 total (4.0 PG). Following her performance in the regular season, Tabeling was named to the 2025-26 All-MAC Second Team.
Tabeling finished the season with 23 double-figure point games in addition to five 20-point games and her first 30-point game of her career. She also led the team in scoring in 15 games and had two double-doubles. Tabeling also led the team in assists in 15 games and in steals in 17 games last season.
Prior to the start of this season, Tabeling was named to the 2026-27 Preseason All-MAC First Team.
Tabeling's classmates, senior Asiah Baxter and redshirt junior Monica Williams, also enter their fourth year as Bobcats. Tabeling, Baxter & Williams all joined the team as freshmen prior to the 2023-24 season.
Baxter is often referred to as Ohio's "unsung hero," especially during the 2025-26 season. She started and played in all 32 games last season, ranking second on the team for minutes played (850/26.9 PG). The senior also ranked second on the team for rebounds with 148 (4.6 PG) and third for steals with 53 (1.7 PG). Baxter scored 223 points (7.0 PG); shooting 41.6 percent from the field, 34.5 percent from the arc and 75.0 percent from the line.
After suffering a season-ending injury early on during the 2024-25 season, Williams finally returned to the court for Ohio in 2025-26. The redshirt junior has been an impactful player since stepping on the court as a freshman. Last season, Williams played in 31 and started in three games. She scored 230 points (7.4 PG); shooting 37.7 percent from the field, 41.3 percent from the arc and 60.4 percent from the line. Williams ranked third on the team for assists with 54 (1.7 PG) and free throws made.
Another strong returner for Ohio, redshirt junior Bella Ranallo, played her first year with the Bobcats last season after transferring from Clemson. Ranallo is valuable at the point, having played and started in 29 games. She amassed 724 minutes played, averaging 25.0 minutes per game before suffering a season-ending injury in Ohio's last home game of the regular season. In 2025-26, Ranallo averaged 11.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game.
Other key returners for the Bobcats include senior Antonicia Moultrie, juniors Gigi Bower and Danni Scully as well as sophomore ReRe Jennings.
WELCOME TO ATHENS
Ohio welcomes five newcomers, including four freshmen and one junior transfer to its 2026-27 roster.
Sienna Allen (Freshman; Portsmouth, Ohio): A 6-1 guard, Allen was a four-year letterwinner for basketball at Portsmouth High School. Allen led Portsmouth to several titles, including the back-to-back Ohio Division 5 State Titles (2024-25, 2025-26), and garnered multiple accolades along the way. Allen's accolades include being named 2024-25 Division 5 Player of the Year (Prep Girls Hoops), 2024-25 District 14 Player of the Year and 2024-25 All-Southeast District Player of the Year. Allen was selected First Team All-Ohio, First Team All-District, First Team All-OVC and District 14 First Team multiple times throughout her career. She also is a multi-time OVC Player of the Year, and OVC Champion.
Irene Asensio Mañosa (Junior; Barcelona, Spain): A 5-8 guard, Asensio Mañosa joins the Bobcats after playing two season at UTEP. She played in 45 games and made 10 starts; averaging 13.7 minutes, 2.1 points, 1.3 rebounds per game. Asensio Mañosa compiled 95 points with the Miners; shooting 29.0 percent from the field, 21.6 percent from the arc and 80.0 percent from the line. Internationally, she has played for Spain's national team and earned a silver medal at the 2024 FIBA U18 Women's Eurobasket.
Kamie Ellis (Freshman; Port Charlotte, Fla.): A 5-9 guard, Ellis was a combined four-year letterwinner for basketball at Miami Country Day (2024-25, 2025-26) and Charlotte High (2022-23, 2023-24). She helped Miami Country Day to a 2024-25 State Championship title. Ellis played in 76 games and compiled 915 points, 313 rebounds, 224 assists, 246 steals and 24 blocks.
Aubrey Pepper (Freshman; Athens, Ohio): A 5-9 guard, Pepper played basketball Warren High School. During her career, she was named an All-Ohio Honorable Mention. Pepper averaged 14.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 3.5 steals and 0.8 blocks per game.
Blossom Wallace (Freshman; Pickerington, Ohio): A 6-0 forward, Wallace was a four-year letterwinner for basketball Pickerington Central High School. As a freshman, she averaged 6.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game. As a sophomore, Wallace averaged 8.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game. As a junior, she averaged 10.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.0 steals per game. The 2025 State Champion has made two state final four appearances (2023, 2024). Wallace earned several accolades including being named 2024-25 DI Ohio Honorable Mention and 2024-25 First Team OCC.
2026-27 MAC PRESEASON POLL & PRESEASON ALL-MAC
The Ohio women's basketball team was fifth in the 2026-27 Mid-American Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, as announced by the league on Tuesday, Oct. 20. In addition, senior Bailey Tabeling (Seymour, Ind.) was selected to the 2026-27 Preseason All-MAC First Team.
Ohio's lone Preseason All-MAC selection, Tabeling, enters her fourth year as one of the Bobcats' top performers. During the 2025-26 season, she was named to the All-MAC Second Team. Tabeling played and started in 32 games, amassing 983 minutes and averaging 30.7 minutes per game. The senior finished the season shooting 38.8 percent from the field, 31.3 percent from the arc and 74.8 percent from the line. One of her top performances last season with a 33-point outing in Ohio's conference quarterfinal win over Central Michigan. Overall, Tabeling averaged 14.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists 2.3 steals and 0.5 blocks per game.
Ball State was selected as the predicted regular season champion, earning 111 points with five first-place votes. Miami was picked to finish second with 108 points and three first-place votes. UMass (1) and Toledo (2) also received first-place votes. Ball State (4), Toledo (4), Miami (3) and UMass (1) all received MAC Tournament Champion votes as well.
UP NEXT
The Bobcats will be back in action when they host Georgia on Saturday, Nov. 14 in the Convocation Center. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. ET and the game will be available to watch on ESPN+.
#OUohyeah
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/ Women's BasketballTuesday, November 10
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