The journey is not over for the Ohio Bobcats.
Despite coming up short in the MAC tournament semifinals, there is still life in the 2020-2021 season. The Bobcats (14-8) accepted a bid into the WNIT Tournament and will face Clemson (11-13) in the first round Friday at 2 p.m. in Charlotte.
The last time Ohio participated in the WNIT was 2019, the year the Bobcats won 30 games and made it all the way to the quarterfinals before falling to Northwestern 61-58. The Bobcats’ trek throughout the playoffs was fantastic.
This team could create similar magic.
Ohio has been held back from achieving its potential all season. Whether it be injuries or cancelations, the Bobcats had to play with one hand tied behind their backs — figuratively, of course. But in that adversity emerged a team matured and toughened.
MAC Player of Year CeCe Hooks took over on a nightly basis, Kaylee Bambule became a clutch weapon, Madi Mace developed into one of the conference’s top freshmen, all while Erica Johnson overcame and played through immeasurable pain.
The Bobcats will still have to overcome a lot to make it to the finals. The WNIT is full of great programs, but it’s March, and the Bobcats are here to play.
