Toledo Tops UMass in MAC Women's Basketball Tournament

Rockets dominate rebounding and 3-point shooting to advance to semifinals

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The No. 6 seed Toledo Rockets defeated the third-seeded UMass Minutewomen 67-56 in the first round of the MAC women's basketball tournament on Wednesday at Rocket Arena in Cleveland. Toledo controlled the game from start to finish, building a lead on superior 3-point shooting and rebounding. UMass mounted a comeback in the third quarter but couldn't overcome Toledo's dominance on the glass and in the paint.

Why it matters

This win advances Toledo to the semifinals of the MAC tournament, where they will face second-seeded Ball State. The Rockets overcame a spirited effort from UMass, who had a strong 23-7 regular season record. Toledo's ability to dominate the boards and knock down 3-pointers proved to be the difference in the game.

The details

Toledo jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and led 36-24 at halftime. UMass used a 10-0 run in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 44-38, but Toledo pulled away in the fourth quarter, shooting 70% from the field. The Rockets out-rebounded UMass 46-31 and converted that advantage into a 20-5 edge in second-chance points. Toledo shot 46.3% overall compared to 32.8% for UMass.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, March 12, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.

The players

Patricia Anumgba

Led Toledo with 19 points and 12 rebounds.

Kendall Carruthers

Scored 16 points for Toledo.

Ella Weaver

Scored 16 points for Toledo.

Yahmani McKayle

Led all scorers with 24 points for UMass.

Allie Palmieri

Contributed 10 points for UMass.

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What’s next

Toledo will face second-seeded Ball State in the semifinals of the MAC women's basketball tournament.

The takeaway

Toledo's dominant rebounding and 3-point shooting proved to be the difference in this first-round MAC tournament matchup. The Rockets overcame a spirited comeback attempt by UMass to advance to the semifinals, where they will face a tough challenge against Ball State.