Cotie McMahon Anchors Ole Miss’ Strong Start

OXFORD, Miss. — Amidst one of the strongest starts of the Yolett McPhee-McCuin era at Ole Miss, a new addition has played a key role in the Rebels’ early success.

Senior forward Cotie McMahon has undoubtedly been the leader for the Rebels (17-4 overall, 4-2 SEC) thus far this season. On Tuesday, she was named both National Player of the Week by the United States Basketball Writers Association and Co-SEC Player of the Week.

Cotie McMahon is officially the USBWA National Player of the Week!

Cotie continues to prove she’s one of the most complete and impactful players in the country Congratulations to Cotie for this achievement! Hotty Toddy! pic.twitter.com/NbyoDE2hzY

— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) January 28, 2026

A transfer from Ohio State, McMahon has always shown flashes. During her freshman year, she started all 36 games, averaging 15 points, just under six rebounds and a little over two assists per game. She won Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2023 and was a two-time all-Big Ten First Team player. In her three years with the Buckeyes, she averaged double-digit points every single year. She has tournament experience, as Ohio State got knocked out in the second round last year by Tennessee. 

So far, in her one and only season at Ole Miss, McMahon is fourth in the SEC with just over 19 points per game, proving that she is one of the best scorers in the league. She has only played in game this season in which she scored below double digits, a loss to Georgia on January 9, where she scored nine points. 

With teammates surrounding her like forward Christeen Iwuala and guard Sira Thieneu, McMahon and the rest of the Rebels have proven they deserve to be near the top of the SEC and ranked within the top-25, currently sitting at No. 17 in this week’s Associated Press poll.