No. 13 Ohio State edged out in overtime by No. 8 Michigan

Olivia Olson's career-high 31 points lift Wolverines to victory over Buckeyes

Feb. 27, 2026 at 5:12am

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In a close matchup between two top-ranked women's basketball teams, No. 8 Michigan defeated No. 13 Ohio State 88-86 in overtime on Wednesday night. Olivia Olson scored a career-high 31 points for the Wolverines, including the game-winning jumper with just 3.2 seconds left in the extra period. Ohio State's Chance Gray hit a 30-foot shot on the final possession, but it was not enough to overcome Michigan's late heroics.

Why it matters

This was a crucial Big Ten conference matchup between two teams vying for position in the NCAA Tournament. The win boosts Michigan's resume, while the loss is a setback for Ohio State's postseason aspirations. The game showcased the talent and competitiveness of women's basketball in the Midwest.

The details

Olson's driving jumper with 3.2 seconds left in overtime proved to be the game-winner for Michigan. Ohio State had a chance to tie it on the final possession, but Gray's 30-foot heave at the buzzer fell short. The Buckeyes had rallied from a late deficit in regulation to force overtime, but couldn't complete the comeback in the extra period.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.
  • Olson's game-winning shot came with just 3.2 seconds remaining in overtime.

The players

Olivia Olson

A junior guard for the University of Michigan women's basketball team, Olson scored a career-high 31 points in the win over Ohio State.

Chance Gray

A senior guard for the Ohio State women's basketball team, Gray hit a 30-foot shot at the buzzer in overtime but it was not enough to overcome Michigan's late lead.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a battle, but our team showed a lot of heart and resilience to pull out the win in overtime.”

— Kim Barnes Arico, Michigan Head Coach (The Vindicator)

“It's a tough loss, but I'm proud of the way our team fought back and gave themselves a chance to win it at the end.”

— Kevin McGuff, Ohio State Head Coach (The Vindicator)

What’s next

Both teams will continue their conference schedules, with Michigan hosting Purdue on Sunday and Ohio State traveling to face Indiana.

The takeaway

This thrilling overtime matchup between two top-15 teams showcased the high level of women's basketball in the Big Ten. The win boosts Michigan's NCAA Tournament resume, while Ohio State will look to rebound in their next game as they aim to secure a spot in the Big Dance.