Sports
Ohio defeats Central Michigan 83-75 in the Convo
By: Maria Monesi
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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — Ohio was back in the Convo Saturday afternoon as it welcomed in Central Michigan and defeated it 83-75.
The Bobcats got off to a fast start right out of the gate and gave the Chippewas trouble. Moves like a play straight to the basket from Yaya Felder had Ohio’s offense rolling.
Key contributions from multiple different players allowed the Bobcats to go into the locker room with a commanding 57-37 lead.
“The ball really moved in the first half,” head coach Bob Boldon said. “I thought we had as you mentioned contributions from different kids because we did such a nice job of passing the ball. We didn’t have a lot of turnovers so you’re getting a lot of shots and it’s obviously the way we like to play, and I was really pleased to see that come to fruition in the first half.”
Jaya McClure finished with a career-high 22 points in her first career start with Ohio.
“I mean I was excited when I knew I was going to start,” McClure said. “But with (Caitlyn) Kroll going out I was like we’ve gotta do it for her. I just stayed locked in, didn’t get a big head and just played my game.
“I think it was just a matter of her being ready,” Boldon said. “I think that that’s really hard to do and she did it. She took advantage of the opportunity. I thought she was playing really good basketball for us the last couple of weeks.”
The execution from players like Felder and McClure, who combined for 54 of the Bobcats points, helped the Bobcats take down the Chippewas. For Boldon, he likes what he sees between the two of them.
“You know the way they play is very similar,” Boldon said. “You know they’re both able to get to the rim. They both shoot the ball well off the catch. They both can shoot it off the dribble from three, both very willing passers.”
“I’m happy for her, for real,” Felder said. “I mean I was kind of like her as a freshman, but like not 28 points. But I’m definitely proud of her, she stepped up for sure.