Ohio State forced 21 turnovers but failed to hit their average of 25 points off turnovers, scoring just 20. After a weak first quarter from the starters, Ohio State began the second down 26-17. Coach Kevin McGuff opted to play bench players Madison Greene, Elsa Lemmila and Eboni Walker with starters McMahon and Taylor Thierry to attempt a comeback.

The Hoosiers matched the Buckeyes shot for shot to open the game, and broke the patented Ohio State press and avoided a dreaded collapse.