BLOCKBUSTER NEWS: OHIO STATE EXTENDS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH KEVIN MCGUFF’S CONTRACT

Columbus, OH – March 2025

 

The Ohio State women’s basketball program has secured its future by officially extending the contract of head coach Kevin McGuff. The move comes after a remarkable season in which McGuff led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten regular-season title and a Sweet 16 appearance, their first since the 2016-17 season. With a 25-7 record, Ohio State has reestablished itself as one of the top programs in the country, and the university is making it clear that McGuff is the right person to lead the team forward.

McGuff’s Legacy at Ohio State

Since taking over as head coach in April 2013, McGuff has been instrumental in shaping the Ohio State women’s basketball program into a consistent powerhouse. Over his tenure, he has accumulated an impressive 193-91 record, translating to a .680 winning percentage. His success in conference play is equally remarkable, boasting a 104-49 record against Big Ten opponents.

Under his leadership, the Buckeyes have achieved significant milestones, including:

Three Big Ten Championships

Five NCAA Tournament appearances

Two Sweet 16 berths

A dominant 25-win season in 2024-25

McGuff has proven to be not only a tactician on the court but also a respected mentor and leader off it. Players, staff, and alumni have praised his ability to develop talent, foster team chemistry, and maintain a strong recruiting pipeline.

A Well-Deserved Contract Extension

Ohio State’s decision to extend McGuff’s contract reflects the confidence the university has in his ability to keep the program competitive at the highest level. Along with McGuff, Ohio State has also locked in key members of his coaching staff, including associate head coach Carla Morrow and assistant coaches Wes Brooks and Jalen Powell. This ensures continuity in the program’s development and strategic direction.

Athletic Director Gene Smith emphasized McGuff’s impact on the team, saying, “Kevin has done a phenomenal job in making Ohio State a powerhouse in women’s basketball. His leadership, ability to develop players, and commitment to excellence make him the ideal coach to continue leading this team.”

The contract extension signals the university’s commitment to building on recent success and positioning the Buckeyes as perennial contenders in the NCAA Tournament.

Buckeye Fans React: Excitement and Debate

Ohio State fans are buzzing with excitement over the news, with many celebrating the stability this brings to the program. Some believe McGuff is the right coach to take the Buckeyes to a Final Four, while others argue that Ohio State should aim even higher and demand more consistent deep NCAA Tournament runs.

One passionate fan expressed, “McGuff has done a great job, but now it’s time to take that next step. A Sweet 16 is nice, but Ohio State should be making Elite Eights and Final Fours regularly!”

Others, however, are fully backing the move, pointing to his recent championship and strong player development as proof that the program is heading in the right direction.

The Future of Ohio State Women’s Basketball

With McGuff officially secured, the Buckeyes can now focus on building for the future, ensuring they remain competitive in the Big Ten and beyond. The coaching staff will continue recruiting top-tier talent and working towards making Ohio State a national championship contender.

The extension also brings stability to the players, as they know they will continue playing under a familiar system and coaching philosophy. With Ohio State’s strong returning core and incoming recruits, fans have reason to be optimistic about the seasons ahead.

Whether you love or question the decision, one thing is certain—Ohio State women’s basketball is in a strong position heading into the future. McGuff’s ability to recruit, develop talent, and win at a high level makes this extension a logical and strategic move by the university.