BGSU women’s basketball (16-12, 8-8 MAC) upset the Ohio Bobcats (15-11, 9-6 MAC) 60-56, in an overtime thriller on Wednesday night.

Junior forward Taya Ellis was the biggest contributor for the Falcons against Ohio. With 16 points and 16 rebounds, Ellis had the most points for BG and the highest number of rebounds in the game. Ellis also contributed four blocks on the night and achieved her third consecutive double-double.

Ellis spoke about her performance. “My teammates need me, and I feel like I’m out here doing everything I need to,” Ellis said. “Whether it’s getting a rebound or getting a [defensive] stop.”

Ellis scored six points in the first quarter, as she helped BG get out to a quick lead. She kept a high energy level through the rest of the first half, and Ellis had eight points and six rebounds at the break. She led the game in rebounds at halftime and was tied with junior guard Paige Kohler with eight points.

Ellis grabbed three rebounds and scored four points in the third quarter to keep the Falcons in control heading into the fourth. 

Ohio outscored Bowling Green in the fourth quarter 15-6 and forced the game to go down to the wire. However, Ellis grabbed a crucial rebound with just over two seconds remaining and forced the Bobcats to foul sophomore guard Johnea Donahue. Donahue hit one of two free throws before Ohio freshman guard ReRe Jennings hit a layup at the buzzer to force overtime.

In overtime, Ellis proved to be clutch down the stretch. Down 54-56, Ellis scored four straight points for the Falcons by hitting a contested layup and two consecutive free throws. BG wound up winning 60-56 in their first overtime game of the season.

Assistant coach Kadie Hempfling talked about Ellis after the game. “We knew there was a mismatch inside, and she really took advantage,” said Hempfling. “She did a great job of getting around the defense and pursuing rebounds.”

BG will hope for similar production from Ellis as they play Central Michigan and Northern Illinois to end the regular season.