NCAAW: Healthy once again, Jacy Sheldon leads Ohio State in Big Ten

Ohio State’s Jacy Sheldon, a dynamic guard from Dublin, OH, battles back from injury to lead the Buckeyes on an unprecedented NCAA Tournament run. Sheldon returns to Ohio State for her fifth season with her sights set on proving herself as a WNBA-caliber player. Writer Eric Nemchock details Sheldon’s inspiring story on November 19, 2023 at 12:00 pm.

Since Kevin McGuff was named head coach in 2013, the Ohio State Buckeyes have consistently stood out as one of the Big Ten’s strongest teams. The team surged to their farthest NCAA Tournament run in decades last season: a groundbreaking first appearance in the Elite Eight since 1987. The 2023-24 season holds high expectations for the Buckeyes due in large part to the return of healthy Jacy Sheldon to the roster for her graduate season. The young guard, who had missed a significant portion of her senior season due to a lower leg injury, chose to come back to Ohio State for one last year, citing “unfinished business.”

Bringing in talent like last year’s ACC Defensive Player of the Year Celeste Taylor, along with the looming potential of returning players like Cotie McMahon and Taylor Thierry, Ohio State looks to be building a strong roster of high-caliber athletes and defensive playmakers. However, Sheldon is the one who will ultimately shape the team’s success. Her exceptional defensive instincts and strong offensive capabilities could be a game-changer for the Buckeyes this season if she remains in good health, making her an attractive prospect for WNBA scouts.

Jacy Sheldon has certainly proven herself worthy of recognition for her impressive stats and honors over the years. While being ranked as the No. 42 recruit in the class of 2019, she quickly rose to prominence during her sophomore year by leading the Buckeyes in scoring, steals, and assists. Over the following years, she continued to excel, earning several All-American and All-Big Ten Team selections, propelling her into the spotlight as a top player to watch.

Ohio State’s energetic playing style aligns perfectly with Jacy Sheldon’s aggressive approach on the court. The team is known for its fast-paced and forceful game, and Sheldon is a natural fit in this scheme, contributing greatly as a premier off-ball defensive playmaker while excelling in transition. Notably, Sheldon possesses an exceptional ability to navigate the halfcourt, attacking with speed and finesse to score against bigger defenders and draw fouls. Adding to her repertoire, Sheldon’s outside shooting is equally impressive, complementing her dominating presence on the court.

Sheldon and the Buckeyes are set to compete in the Pink Flamingo Championship, beginning Monday, Nov. 20 and Wednesday, Nov. 22, with live streaming via FloHoops. Later in the season, Ohio State is scheduled to play national TV games against strong opponents, including the Tennessee Lady Vols and the UCLA Bruins. The 2023-24 NCAA season is off to an exhilarating start, with the Ohio State Buckeyes set to showcase their unmatched talent and determination.

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Rachel Adams

Rachel Adams is your WNBA insider, delivering comprehensive coverage of women’s basketball. With a commitment to highlighting the talent and achievements of WNBA players, she provides game analysis, player profiles, and inspiring stories from the league.