Golden Flashes Secures 2024 MAC Women's Basketball Championship
The Kent State Golden Flashes are the 2023-24 Mid-American Conference women’s basketball champions after their 78-60 win over the Buffalo Bulls. After trailing the Bulls by 4 at the half, the Golden Flashes shot 55.5% in the remaining 20 minutes to soared over the Bulls to secure their first MAC title since 2002. With the MAC title secured, the Golden Flashes have received the automatic bid to the NCAA March Madness tournament.
The Golden Flashes, who were put on their heels in the first half, finished the game shooting 47.5% from the field for 78 points, 36 in the paint, 20 off turnovers, while snagging 38 rebounds and dishing out 14 assists. Senior Guard Katie Shumate, who won the MAC MVP award, led the Golden Flashes with 18 points and 9 rebounds, while Junior Forward Jenna Batsch followed with 14 points and 4 rebounds and Junior Forward Bridget Dunn snagged a team-high 12 rebounds.
The Bulls finished with 39% from the field for 60 points, 26 in the paint, while securing 32 rebounds. Senior Guard Chellia Watson finished with 21 points and 5 assists, while Senior Guard Rana El-Hussani followed with 11 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists.
MAC All-Tournament Team:
Quinesha Lockett - Toledo
Chellia Watson - Buffalo
Rana Elhusseini - Buffalo
Bridget Dunn - Kent State
Katie Shumate - Kent State (MVP)