Joy in Ohio state : Freshman brings an unexpected trait to the women’s basketball…..
**Elsa Lemmilä’s Calm Impact: Ohio State’s Freshman Center Shines After ACL Recovery**
Ohio State women’s basketball has found an unexpected gem in freshman Elsa Lemmilä, a 6-foot-6 center from Finland. After recovering from an ACL tear, Lemmilä has steadily made her presence known on the court, contributing key moments in the paint. Despite limited minutes earlier in the season, her performance has surged as Big Ten play intensifies.
Lemmilä’s recent play has been a stabilizing force for the Buckeyes. Against Maryland, she recorded four blocks and five rebounds, earning a season-high 23 minutes. The following game against Nebraska saw her grab nine rebounds in 22 minutes. Her most impressive performance came in a win against Washington, where Lemmilä shut down the Huskies’ inside game, grabbed critical rebounds, and even disrupted Washington’s inbound plays.
While Lemmilä’s offensive game is still evolving, her defensive prowess and ability to generate turnovers have made her a valuable asset. Teammates, including Cotie McMahon, have praised her development, especially given her recovery from a major injury. As Lemmilä’s confidence grows, she’s expected to become a key double-double contributor for Ohio State, with her calm, focused approach providing a steadying influence on the team.
