Top-seeded UCLA takes down Ohio State to advance to Big Ten Tournament championship

UCLA will play the winner of No. 2 Iowa and No. 3 Michigan in the title game on Sunday.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Top-seeded UCLA defeated No. 5 Ohio State 72-62 in the Big Ten women's basketball tournament semifinals on Saturday. The Bruins led the entire game, though Ohio State fought back to keep the game close in the second half. UCLA had a balanced offensive attack with five players scoring in double figures, led by Kiki Rice's 17 points. Chance Gray scored 23 points for Ohio State in the losing effort.

Why it matters

This is UCLA's second straight appearance in the Big Ten tournament championship game since joining the conference last year. The Bruins are looking to win their first Big Ten tournament title, while Ohio State falls short of the championship game.

The details

UCLA jumped out to a 12-3 lead to start the game, but Ohio State fought back and held the Bruins to just 2 points for the rest of the first quarter to make it a close game. However, Ohio State struggled shooting in the second quarter, making just 27% of their shots, allowing UCLA to extend their lead. The Buckeyes stayed within single digits for most of the second half but couldn't complete the comeback, cutting the deficit to 7 points with 48 seconds left.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
  • The championship game is scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Kiki Rice

A UCLA player who scored a team-high 17 points in the win.

Chance Gray

An Ohio State player who scored a game-high 23 points in the losing effort.

UCLA

The top-seeded team in the Big Ten women's basketball tournament, playing in their second straight conference championship game.

Ohio State

The No. 5 seed in the Big Ten tournament, falling short of the championship game.

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What they’re saying

“While UCLA led the entire game, Ohio State didn't back down quietly.”

— Chloe Peterson, Indiana Fever beat reporter (Indianapolis Star)

What’s next

UCLA will play the winner of No. 2 Iowa and No. 3 Michigan in the Big Ten tournament championship game on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The takeaway

UCLA's balanced scoring attack and stifling defense proved too much for Ohio State, as the Bruins advanced to their second straight Big Ten tournament championship game. This continues UCLA's strong performance since joining the conference last year, solidifying their status as a top contender in the Big Ten.