Ohio State faces Montana State in NCAA Tournament opener

The Ohio State Buckeyes will play the Montana State Bobcats in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The game is set for Friday at 5:30 p.m. EDT in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State, with a record of 25 wins and 6 losses, is ranked 15th. They have had a strong season, especially in non-conference games, where they remain undefeated. The Buckeyes have been effective at limiting their opponents' scoring. They give up an average of 63.5 points per game and hold teams to 40.4% shooting. Montana State has also excelled this season, currently holding a 30-3 record. They dominate in the Big Sky Conference, allowing only 55.5 points per game while foes shoot 38.9% against them. Both teams have key players making significant contributions. For Ohio State, Cotie McMahon averages 16.6 points per game and shoots 43.8%. Jaloni Cambridge contributes from long range, making 1.5 three-pointers per game recently. On the other hand, Esmeralda Morales leads Montana State with 15.3 points, 3.7 assists, and 1.8 steals. In their last ten games, Ohio State has a record of 5-5. They score an average of 73.2 points, while their opponents also score similarly. Montana State has performed better, winning 9 of their last 10 games. They average 73.9 points and have held opponents to just 55 points per game. Overall, fans can expect an exciting matchup as both teams look to advance in the tournament.