The second-round matchup of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament features the No. 4 seed Ohio State Buckeyes (26-6, 14-6 Big Ten) hosting the No. 5 seed Tennessee Lady Volunteers (23-9, 9-9 SEC) at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio. 

The second-round matchup of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament features the No. 4 seed Ohio State Buckeyes (26-6, 14-6 Big Ten) hosting the No. 5 seed Tennessee Lady Volunteers (23-9, 9-9 SEC) at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio.

 

Ohio State Buckeyes

 

The Buckeyes have demonstrated strong performance this season, boasting a perfect 15-0 record on their home court. They secured their spot in the second round with a decisive victory over Montana State. Key players include junior forward Cotie McMahon and freshman guard Jaloni Cambridge, both instrumental in the team’s success. However, the Buckeyes have faced challenges against top-tier teams, as evidenced by their recent 75-46 loss to UCLA in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals.

 

Tennessee Lady Volunteers

 

Under first-year head coach Kim Caldwell, the Lady Vols have embraced an aggressive offensive strategy, particularly from beyond the arc. They rank third nationally in three-point attempts per game, averaging 30.9 shots. In their first-round game, Tennessee showcased their offensive prowess with a commanding 101-66 win over South Florida. Sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper made a notable return from an ankle injury, leading the team with 20 points and six rebounds in just 19 minutes.

 

Head-to-Head and Prediction

 

Historically, Tennessee has had the upper hand in NCAA Tournament encounters, winning all three previous matchups against Ohio State (1996, 2011, and 2016). However, recent regular-season meetings have favored the Buckeyes, who secured victories in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

 

This matchup presents a classic clash of styles: Ohio State’s balanced attack and home-court advantage versus Tennessee’s high-octane, perimeter-focused offense. The outcome may hinge on the Lady Vols’ three-point shooting efficiency and the Buckeyes’ ability to defend the perimeter. Given Ohio State’s unblemished home record and recent experience against Tennessee, they hold a slight edge. However, if Tennessee’s shooters find their rhythm early, an upset could be on the

horizon.