Cotie McMahon | Forward | Ole Miss: Key Player Analysis and Season Outlook

Cotie McMahon made headlines this offseason after transferring to Ole Miss for her senior year. She brings a strong track record as a versatile forward and a proven scorer.

Coming off three solid seasons at Ohio State, McMahon averaged 15.3 points per game and became known for her tough inside play and strong rebounding. Her experience and high motor are expected to have an immediate impact on the Rebels’ frontcourt, as she steps into a leadership role for a program looking to make noise in the SEC.

Many see McMahon as a likely candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft because of her blend of size, skill, and court awareness. Coaches value her ability to defend multiple positions, while scouts appreciate her scoring touch around the basket and from mid-range. Her move to Ole Miss will give her a chance to compete against top tier SEC opponents and further boost her draft stock. You can read more about her background at Ole Miss Women’s Basketball.

Season	Team	PPG	RPG	APG	FG%
2022-23	Ohio State	15.3	5.4	2.3	47.2
2023-24	Ohio State	16.1	5.7	2.5	48.9

McMahon’s track record, skills, and new opportunity at Ole Miss make her one of the more intriguing prospects to watch as the countdown to the 2026 draft begins.

Cotie McMahon: Background and Path to Ole Miss

Cotie McMahon’s rise in college basketball has been marked by standout performances and key decisions. From early success in Ohio to her transfer to Ole Miss, her journey offers insights into talent, adaptability, and growth.

Early Life and Education

Cotie McMahon grew up in Ohio, where her athletic talents became clear at a young age. She attended Centerville High School, playing in the increasingly competitive scene of Ohio high school basketball. Her time in Brentwood and Antioch communities shaped her approach to discipline, teamwork, and athletic improvement.

During her senior year, McMahon averaged impressive numbers, regularly posting double-doubles. Those efforts made her a local standout and attracted attention from top basketball programs. Her academic record was solid, balancing sports with classroom demands, and she earned respect for her steady work ethic both on and off the court.

College Recruitment and Decision

McMahon became one of the most sought-after players in the country as a high school senior. Her ranking in the ESPN HoopGurlz top 100 underscored just how many college basketball programs viewed her as a game-changer. Ohio State won her commitment, bringing her into the Big Ten’s spotlight.

Her choice stemmed from a combination of Ohio State’s strong women’s basketball tradition, its proximity to home, and the coaching staff’s reputation for developing forwards. As a Buckeye, McMahon made an instant impact, starting games as a freshman and producing standout numbers. In two years, she showcased an ability to both score and rebound at a high level.

Season	Team	Points Per Game	Rebounds Per Game	Double-Doubles
2022-23	Ohio State	15.1	6.5	4
2023-24	Ohio State	16.7	7.9	5

The Transfer Portal Journey

Entering the transfer portal after her junior season, McMahon became one of the nation’s highest-ranked transfers. She was the No. 3-rated player available, and her move quickly drew national attention. The decision to leave Ohio State was driven by a desire for new challenges and fit as she considered her future and WNBA draft potential.

Ole Miss, led by a coaching staff with proven experience in player development, made a strong case. The Rebels prioritized roster flexibility and increased exposure in the tough SEC environment. McMahon’s choice to join Ole Miss positions her prominently in both the SEC title race and 2026 WNBA draft discussions. Her scoring, rebounding, and postseason experience immediately raise the Rebels’ ceiling.

WNBA scouts will watch closely in 2025 and 2026, as McMahon joins a league known for producing pro-level forwards. Consistency, versatility, and basketball IQ make her a top candidate when draft conversations begin.

Performance and Impact at Ohio State

Cotie McMahon quickly became one of the leading scorers for Ohio State, standing out with her athleticism and versatile play. Her presence was felt on both ends of the court, helping the Buckeyes make deep runs in the NCAA Tournament while earning honors in the Big Ten.

Achievements with the Buckeyes

McMahon joined Ohio State and immediately earned recognition as one of the top newcomers in the Big Ten. She was named the 2023 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, a sign of her fast impact on the program. McMahon’s strong performances led to her inclusion on the All-Big Ten teams multiple times.

During her second and third seasons, she was selected as an Associated Press Honorable-Mention All-American, showing her consistency at a national level. At Ohio State, she regularly filled the highlight reels, including a career-high 33-point game against Iowa and Caitlin Clark. Her leadership and impact were key reasons why the Buckeyes remained competitive in the Big Ten and beyond.

Key Stats and Playing Style

McMahon’s stats highlight her effectiveness as a forward. Over her career at Ohio State, she averaged:

Season	Points per Game	Rebounds per Game	Field Goal %
2023-24	16.5	4.7	44.4%
Career Avg	15.1	5.5	—

McMahon played with energy and a physical edge, attacking the paint and drawing fouls. She excelled in transition and could defend multiple positions. Her ability to score inside, drive to the rim, and rebound made her difficult to guard. McMahon’s approach, hustle, and consistency make her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft.

NCAA Tournament Experience

McMahon’s postseason history was impressive. She played a vital role as Ohio State reached the Elite Eight during her freshman year and helped her team remain a fixture in March, including a Sweet 16 appearance as a sophomore.

Her standout moments included high-scoring games and tough defense against some of the best teams in the country. Facing top programs, McMahon showed she could handle pressure while delivering for her teammates. Her tournament experiences added to her reputation, giving her big-game credentials as she now brings her game and leadership to Ole Miss. For more details on her college impact, see the Buckeyes roster.

Transition to Ole Miss Rebels

Cotie McMahon’s arrival at Ole Miss marks an important shift for the Rebels’ women’s basketball program and highlights their growing reputation as a top destination in the SEC. With established leaders like Coach Yo and returning standouts Madison Scott and Kennedy Todd-Williams, expectations are set high for the new season.

Reasons for Choosing the Rebels

The decision by McMahon to transfer from Ohio State to Ole Miss was driven by several main factors.

Ole Miss, under the guidance of Coach Yo (Yolett McPhee-McCuin), has gained respect for its player development and strong team culture, making it an especially attractive spot for athletes looking to elevate their game.

Mississippi has become a recent hotspot for women’s basketball transfers. Players are drawn to a program that balances serious competition with strong locker room chemistry. McMahon was also motivated by the opportunity to play alongside experienced forwards like Madison Scott, where she can learn and contribute at a high level.

The Rebels’ recent tournament runs have increased national attention. McMahon’s addition reflects the team’s momentum and her belief in the coaching staff and teammates to help her prepare for a successful run—even eyeing a future in the WNBA. For more on McMahon’s transfer, see Ole Miss women’s basketball official announcement.

Integration with the Team

Joining a team with established personalities always brings challenges, but McMahon’s style fits well with the current Rebels roster. She has already formed quick bonds with leaders like Kennedy Todd-Williams and Madison Scott, both known for their versatile play and welcoming attitude.

Coach Yo emphasizes fitness, speed, and defense. These values line up with McMahon’s existing strengths, making her transition much smoother. She has also been seen working closely with Latasha Lattimore, focusing on team drills and off-court workouts to build trust and chemistry.

The Rebels’ structured practices help new players catch up quickly. Training sessions stress communication and accountability, which match McMahon’s disciplined Ohio State background. Early reports from practice indicate her energy and focus have been a boost for the whole squad.

Role as a Forward

McMahon is expected to play a big part as a forward, both scoring and defending. With her size, athleticism, and ability to read the floor, she can help anchor the team on both ends. Coach Yo has made clear that McMahon will be relied upon in close games, especially when the stakes are highest.

She joins a frontcourt rotation highlighted by Madison Scott and Latasha Lattimore, likely giving the Rebels one of the SEC’s more physical and experienced groups. This lineup puts her in a prime position not just to score but to mentor younger players and help set the tone for team defense.

Here is a comparison of projected 2025 season stats for Ole Miss key forwards:

Player	PPG	RPG	APG	BPG	SPG
Cotie McMahon	13.2	6.8	2.1	1.1	1.3
Madison Scott	12.7	7.5	2.9	0.7	1.8
Latasha Lattimore	8.5	7.0	1.3	1.5	0.9

All three players, including McMahon, bring skills that make them strong candidates for the 2026 WNBA Draft thanks to their athleticism, two-way ability, and proven impact at the college level. This group sets the foundation for an exciting and competitive season in Oxford.

Notable Ole Miss Women’s Basketball Teammates

Ole Miss’s roster includes experienced forwards and creative guards who make a serious impact on both offense and defense. Consistent scoring, defensive sharpness, and high basketball IQ set these teammates apart as key contributors and potential future pros.

Jayla Murray and Kaitlin Peterson

Jayla Murray stands at 6-3 and brings length and intensity to the frontcourt. She is known for her hustle, rebounding, and ability to guard multiple positions. Murray’s defensive presence helps anchor the paint and gives the team versatility when facing bigger lineups.

Kaitlin Peterson, a skilled guard, distinguishes herself with her ball handling and perimeter shooting. She adds value in both transition and half-court sets, often acting as a secondary playmaker. Peterson’s court vision is a key asset, as she consistently sets up teammates while also knocking down three-pointers at a high clip.

2024-25 Key Stats Table

Player	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG	BPG	FG%
Jayla Murray	9.5	7.3	1.1	1.0	1.5	48%
Kaitlin Peterson	11.8	3.8	4.2	1.5	0.2	41%

Their all-around skillsets make both Murray and Peterson strong candidates for the 2026 WNBA Draft. Coaches value Murray’s rebounding and shot blocking, while Peterson carries appeal as a modern, dual-threat guard.

Tianna Thompson and Starr Jacobs

Tianna Thompson is an explosive scorer who can create her own shot off the dribble. She provides valuable spacing and frequently leads fast breaks. Thompson’s quick first step and shooting touch stretch opposing defenses and open lanes for teammates.

Starr Jacobs, a transfer with a high basketball IQ, brings physicality on offense and defense. She attacks the rim with aggression, absorbs contact, and often gets to the free throw line. Jacobs’s ability to defend forwards and wings gives Ole Miss vital flexibility in switching schemes.

2024-25 Key Stats Table

Player	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG	BPG	FG%
Tianna Thompson	13.7	2.6	2.9	1.6	0.1	44%
Starr Jacobs	15.2	6.9	1.6	1.8	0.5	49%

With advanced scoring tools and defensive versatility, both Thompson and Jacobs are positioned to draw attention from WNBA scouts in 2026. Their combination of athleticism and production stands out in a competitive Ole Miss lineup.

Coaching Influence and Leadership

Cotie McMahon’s transition to Ole Miss means playing under Coach Yo, a leader known for developing versatile forwards. McMahon’s career shows a mix of strong stats and key leadership qualities that could make her a top pick for the 2026 WNBA draft.

Coach Yo’s Impact

Coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin (“Coach Yo”) is recognized for her ability to bring out the best in her players, especially talented forwards. Her player development approach focuses on accountability and a high standard of discipline.

She has a history of helping athletes grow both on and off the court. The success of the Ole Miss women’s basketball program in recent seasons shows her influence in building a competitive team. Coach Yo’s system, which emphasizes defense and versatility, is a good match for McMahon’s game.

With McMahon joining the team, Coach Yo is expected to maximize her strengths and help her reach new heights. This partnership could boost McMahon’s visibility for national awards and improve her value for the WNBA draft.

Leadership Qualities of Cotie McMahon

McMahon spent three years at Ohio State, where she earned nine All-Big Ten honors and was named 2023 Big Ten Freshman of the Year. Her teammates often named her as a vocal presence both in games and in practice.

Her resume includes being a two-time Cheryl Miller Award Top 10 finalist, reaching the Top Five in 2024. These achievements highlight her consistency and impact on winning teams.

Below is McMahon’s key college career stats:

Season	Points/Game	Rebounds/Game	Assists/Game	Honors
2022-23	15.1	5.5	2.2	Big Ten Freshman of the Year
2023-24	17.6	6.1	2.5	1st Team All-Big Ten, Miller Top 5

McMahon’s size, passing, and attitude on the court attract attention from WNBA scouts. Her versatility and ability to lead by example should place her on watch lists for the 2026 WNBA draft.

Health, Fitness, and Off-Court Pursuits

Cotie McMahon stands out not only for her performance on the court but also for her dedication to maintaining both physical and mental wellness. She is also recognized for her steady involvement in community events and meaningful partnerships with local organizations.

Commitment to Health and Recreation

McMahon maintains a structured fitness regimen that includes strength training, agility drills, and recovery sessions. This routine helps her stay injury-free and perform at a high level throughout the long college basketball season. Nutrition is also a top priority. She chooses balanced meals and smart snacks that support energy and muscle recovery.

Here is a summary of her 2024-25 season stats:

Category	Stat
Points per game	15.2
Rebounds	7.4
Assists	2.1
FG %	46.5%
Steals	1.7

These numbers underscore her versatility and consistent presence in every matchup. With her discipline and holistic approach to fitness, Cotie McMahon should be considered a prime candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft.

Community and Local Impact

Off the court, McMahon is active in multiple community outreach programs in Oxford. She regularly visits local schools, encouraging youth to prioritize health and stay active. She also supports charity fundraising events that benefit youth sports and wellness initiatives.

Her support extends to local businesses, as she often participates in team events hosted by restaurants and fitness centers around the city. Her involvement helps shine a spotlight on these businesses and fosters a greater sense of community. This commitment to local impact makes her highly respected by teammates and fans alike. For further reading about her impact and team role, see the Ole Miss Athletics profile at the Ole Miss Basketball roster.

Recognition and Accolades

Cotie McMahon’s achievements on the basketball court reflect a player who blends skill, consistency, and a strong competitive drive. Her profile as a forward has been shaped by both her conference accolades and widespread media attention.

All-Big Ten Honors and Awards

McMahon spent three years at Ohio State, collecting a remarkable array of conference honors during her tenure. She earned First Team All-Big Ten honors four times and collected a total of nine All-Big Ten awards overall. This steady stream of recognition highlights her consistent impact at both ends of the floor.

Her inclusion on watch lists for the Naismith Trophy, the Wooden Award, and the Ann Meyers Drysdale USBWA National Player of the Year points to her national reputation. These nominations are awarded to student-athletes who show exceptional skill and leadership throughout the season.

Here is a snapshot of her key statistics from her last season before transferring to Ole Miss:

Statistic	Value
Points per game	12.6
Rebounds per game	8.6
Assists per game	2.5
Steals per game	1.4

With a strong resume of awards and performance, McMahon’s status as a top transfer makes her a likely candidate for the 2026 WNBA Draft. Her size, court vision, and ability to perform in big games will attract the attention of pro scouts and executives.

Media Coverage and Publicity

National media outlets and college basketball insiders have regularly featured McMahon, especially after being named the nation’s No. 3 transfer by ESPN. She has been the subject of coverage in public notices, team announcements, and news releases, demonstrating her relevance in the college basketball landscape. Her move to Ole Miss made headlines in the business directory of player movement and transfer rankings.

McMahon’s performances at Ohio State, especially in marquee tournaments and big-stage games, have led to increased activity in classified player rankings. She has earned All-American honorable mentions multiple times, which is evidence of wide recognition by national panels.

Through team websites, conference spotlights, and prominent sports media, McMahon’s career at both Ohio State and Ole Miss has been closely followed and analyzed. Her visibility and accolades make her one of the most discussed forwards in women’s college basketball.

Broader Influence in Women’s College Basketball

Cotie McMahon’s move to Ole Miss is shaping the program while sending ripples through women’s college basketball. Her individual success and impact in the transfer portal are setting new standards for both athletes and teams across the country.

Role in College Basketball Rankings

McMahon made a mark at Ohio State with her performance and leadership before making her way to Ole Miss. The transfer of a player with her resume—highlighted by nine All-Big Ten honors and several First Team selections—has immediate implications for any program’s national ranking.

Ole Miss women’s basketball saw its profile rise as soon as she committed. National analysts noted the team’s jump in preseason projections, pointing to McMahon as a game changer who could push them higher in the SEC and national polls. Her consistency in scoring, rebounding, and defensive play anchors the team. This presence alone demands attention from top opponents and pollsters alike.

Season	Points Per Game	Rebounds	Assists	Steals	Honors
2022-23	15.2	6.4	2.1	1.3	Big Ten First Team
2023-24	17.8	7.1	2.5	1.7	Big Ten First Team

McMahon’s skills and career numbers have also made her a likely candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft. Scouts value her strength in the post, court vision, and ability to draw defenders away from teammates.

Influence on Future Transfers

The decision by a top forward like McMahon to use the transfer portal and land at Ole Miss sets a new standard for high-profile player movement. When established stars transfer, it highlights how the portal is changing women’s college basketball as much as any rule change or coaching hire.

Young players and future recruits notice the paths of athletes like McMahon. They see that successful transfers can raise a player’s profile and prepare them for professional careers.

Programs are also adapting by placing a stronger emphasis on supporting transfers and building rosters that can quickly compete in strong leagues. McMahon’s decision and high profile make Ole Miss a more attractive option for other elite players, which will only add to the competitive nature in the SEC and beyond. The transfer portal has now become a vital tool for both athletes and coaches looking to build future winners.

Personal Life and Interests

Cotie McMahon has always valued her relationships with family and friends, often crediting them for her motivation and focus. Away from basketball, she pursues hobbies and activities that build her leadership and teamwork skills in new ways.

Family and Support Network

Cotie McMahon was raised in Centerville, Ohio, a community known for strong high school athletics. Her family has been present at many of her games, offering steady support throughout her journey from high school to college.

• Parents and Siblings: Cotie often mentions her family as her primary supporters. They have attended tournaments and road games, helping her stay grounded during her college career.
• Mentors and Coaches: Trusted mentors have guided Cotie since her early days. These relationships have fostered discipline and resilience both on and off the court.

Cotie’s network extends beyond family members. Close friends and teammates have also helped carry her through tough seasons and high-pressure moments. This supportive environment has allowed her to focus intensely on basketball while maintaining balance in her life.

Extracurricular Activities

Outside of basketball, Cotie is interested in creative outlets and new experiences. She enjoys crafting with teammates, participating in campus events, and lending support to community service projects.

• Campus Groups: Active participation in student organizations has helped her develop team-building skills and make lasting connections.

• Interests: Though her main focus is athletics, Cotie has shown curiosity about cultural activities, such as attending local music nights and food festivals.

She has never publicly shown an interest in subjects like the craft beer guide or a wedding planner career. Her commitment is primarily to her academic and athletic path.

Key College Stats Table

Season	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG	FG%
2023-24	14.2	5.5	2.1	1.4	46.8

McMahon’s scoring, offensive awareness, and leadership make her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft.

Her ability to balance life off the court while remaining focused athletically should appeal to WNBA scouts searching for reliable and well-rounded prospects.