Podcast Summary: No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show
Episode Title: The Athletic All-Access: Ohio State's Cotie McMahon
Release Date: March 1, 2024
Hosts: Zena Kaeda, Chantelle Jennings, Sabreena Merchant
Guest: Cody McMahon, Ohio State Women's Basketball Star
Introduction
In this engaging episode of No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show, hosts Zena Kaeda, Chantelle Jennings, and Sabreena Merchant welcome Ohio State University's standout player, Cody McMahon. Fresh off Ohio State’s decisive Big Ten championship victory over Michigan, Cody shares insights into her journey, her impact on the team, and her experiences both on and off the court.
Personal Interests: A Grinch Enthusiast (05:09 - 07:58)
The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted segment about Cody’s unique personal interest—her admiration for the Grinch. Chantelle Jennings reveals, “You are a noted Grinch aficionado” (06:20), leading to Cody enthusiastically discussing her Grinch-themed locker.
Notable Quote:
Cody McMahon (06:54): “I am a Grinch fan. Love the Grinch.”
Zena Kaeda humorously remarks on the significance of having a Grinch-themed trash bag in her locker, highlighting Cody’s ability to blend personal quirks with her athletic identity.
Path to Ohio State: Early Enrollment and Family Support (08:24 - 12:59)
Cody delves into her decision to enroll early at Ohio State at 17, explaining that it was a straightforward choice driven by her aspirations in basketball. She emphasizes the strategic move to prepare for collegiate sports, stating:
Notable Quote:
Cody McMahon (09:07): “It was very easy. High school was good, but we just weren't going to get to state. So I needed to prepare for the next level.”
She also highlights the invaluable support from her family, particularly her mother and grandmother, which allowed her to stay close to home and maintain a strong personal foundation during her transition to college athletics.
Team Dynamics and Performance: Winning the Big Ten (12:00 - 20:22)
Cody discusses her significant role in Ohio State’s success this season, including her performance in winning the Big Ten outright. She reflects on the team's versatility and depth, attributing their strength to having multiple leading scorers and a cohesive unit that plays within coach Kevin McGuff’s system.
Notable Quote:
Cody McMahon (19:18): “We have so many different scores at different levels, and we have players who just play their role and love to do that.”
Cody also touches on the rigorous training involved in mastering Ohio State’s pressing strategy, emphasizing daily practice and conditioning that prepare the team for high-stakes games.
International Experience: Team USA and U19 World Cup (11:16 - 16:57)
Cody shares her enriching experience playing for Team USA in the U19 World Cup in Spain. She discusses the heightened physicality and the diverse playing styles encountered, which have enhanced her adaptability and resilience on the court.
Notable Quote:
Cody McMahon (13:27): “Overseas, the physicality is just crazy. It taught me to play through contact and finish stronger.”
Her time with Team USA also fostered strong bonds with other elite players, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and mutual trust—lessons she seamlessly integrates back into her collegiate play.
Growth of Women’s Basketball: Observations and Inspirations (17:15 - 24:09)
Cody reflects on the significant growth in women’s college basketball, noting the increase in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities and the rising visibility of the sport. She believes this momentum will continue to elevate the game, offering more exposure and resources to female athletes.
Notable Quote:
Cody McMahon (24:09): “The opportunity for women in college sports right now is just through the roof. It’s a high peak for NIL opportunity.”
Additionally, Cody draws inspiration from both NBA star LeBron James and WNBA players, appreciating the different levels of basketball and striving to incorporate diverse techniques into her game.
Upcoming Challenges: Iowa City Game and Postseason Outlook (24:40 - 27:16)
Looking ahead, Cody expresses immense excitement for the upcoming game against Iowa City, anticipating a vibrant and charged atmosphere similar to her experiences in Spain. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and giving her best in every game, especially with the postseason just around the corner.
Notable Quote:
Cody McMahon (23:01): “I’m super hyped. I love that energy. I can't wait.”
She also shares her strategic mindset for the NCAA tournament, emphasizing that every team is formidable and that no game should be taken lightly.
Quick Hits: Fun Facts and Personal Tidbits (27:16 - 31:56)
Favorite Basketball Sound on Game Day:
Cody McMahon (30:00): “Probably the crowd.”
Favorite Basketball Move:
Cody McMahon (30:09): “The spin move.”
Most Used Phrase:
Cody McMahon (30:21): “And one.”
Alternative Profession:
Cody McMahon (30:39): “Orthopedic trauma surgeon.”
Biggest Basketball Pet Peeve:
Cody McMahon (31:35): “Hairstyles that interfere with the game, like bows or ponytail buns.”
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Cody expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share her journey and insights. The hosts invite listeners to subscribe for more in-depth interviews and continue supporting the growth of women’s basketball.
Final Quote:
Zena Kaeda (32:25): “Keep listening, keep learning, and keep loving the game because that’s the only way we’re going to keep growing it.”
Key Takeaways:
- Dedication and Early Decision: Cody’s proactive choice to enroll early at Ohio State set the foundation for her successful collegiate career.
- Team Contribution: Her versatile skills and positive energy significantly impact Ohio State’s performance, particularly in their Big Ten championship run.
- International Growth: Playing for Team USA provided invaluable experience, enhancing her physicality and teamwork.
- Sport’s Evolution: Cody highlights the burgeoning opportunities and heightened visibility in women’s basketball, paving the way for future athletes.
- Personal Insights: From her Grinch fandom to her aspirations beyond basketball, Cody offers a relatable and multifaceted perspective of being a student-athlete.
This episode offers a comprehensive look into Cody McMahon’s life as a rising star in women’s basketball, blending personal anecdotes with professional achievements, and providing inspiration for aspiring athletes and fans alike.