Ole Miss Rebels player Cotie McMahon and Minnesota Golden Gophers star Amaya Battle were involved in a controversial play in a close second-round game of the NCAA Tournament.
Late in the fourth quarter, when Ole Miss was leading, Battle drew an offensive foul on McMahon. It was the Rebels star’s fifth foul, which meant she had to leave the game with about 4:22 remaining.
It was a questionable call as fans alleged Battle faked the fall. Many also claimed that since Battle was inside the restricted area, it shouldn’t have been called an offensive foul. After the game, Battle herself admitted she intentionally tried to draw the foul.
“Yeah, she got a ton of buckets on me and it was like she was powering through and I was like, I’m just going to try and fall and see what happens. It worked out,” Battle said.
After Battle’s confession, many called her out and trolled her on the internet. Seeing this, despite being an opponent, McMahon came to her defense, asking fans not to criticize her, as it is part of the game.
“Just wanted to say, by no means necessary should Amaya Battle be getting attacked for what she said in her press,” McMahon said. “She played the game. Basketball is full of tactics, strategy and a little bit of acting. She made a basketball play and hoped for the best. Leave her alone!!”
Despite Cotie McMahon’s Foul Out, Ole Miss Held On To Win
When the foul happened, Ole Miss was leading the game 59-54. Losing McMahon, who had 15 points on 5 of 6 shooting, at that point could have put the Rebels on the back foot while trying to save their lead against surging Minnesota.
However, despite McMahon’s absence, Ole Miss was able to held on to the lead and ultimately win the game 65-63. For the Rebels, guard Sira Thienou led from the front with 18 points on 7 of 18 shooting from the field, including 2-5 from the 3-point line and 2-5 from the free throw line.
With the win, McMahon’s Ole Miss has advanced into the Sweet Sixteen stage of the tournament.
Read More News:
Who is Sarah Strong’s Mother? NCAA Success Runs in the Blood as Strong Sr.’s 1998 Moment Reappears
Why Is Geno Auriemma’s UConn Investing $100 Million? Know More About Huskies’ New Plan
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
