The Cheryl Miller Award, celebrating excellence in women’s basketball, was presented to Ohio State’s Taylor Thierry, moving her to tears.

In a year full of milestones and celebrations of excellence in women’s sports, few moments have been as poignant and heartwarming as the emotional scene that unfolded on Tuesday night when Taylor Thierry, the standout star of the Ohio State Buckeyes women’s basketball team, was named the recipient of the Cheryl Miller Award. The prestigious award, named after one of the most iconic figures in women’s basketball history, recognizes excellence in the sport at the collegiate level. Thierry, visibly moved by the honor, was overcome with emotion as she took the stage to accept the award.

As one of the brightest young stars in NCAA women’s basketball, Thierry’s win was not only a recognition of her incredible individual achievements but also a symbol of the continued rise of Ohio State’s women’s basketball program under head coach Kevin McGuff. Her performance throughout the season, her leadership on and off the court, and her ability to inspire her teammates and fans alike made her a fitting choice for an award that celebrates the legacy of Cheryl Miller, a woman who revolutionized the game.

But what does this award mean for Thierry, her teammates, Ohio State University, and the future of women’s basketball as a whole? Let’s take a deeper look at Taylor Thierry’s journey, the significance of the Cheryl Miller Award, and why this moment is so meaningful for women’s sports.

The Cheryl Miller Award: A Celebration of Excellence

Before diving into Taylor Thierry’s remarkable achievements, it’s important to understand the significance of the Cheryl Miller Award itself. Named in honor of Cheryl Miller, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest women’s basketball players of all time, the award has become a benchmark for excellence in the sport.

Cheryl Miller’s legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. During her career at USC in the 1980s, Miller was a dominant force on the court, leading the Trojans to two NCAA championships, earning numerous All-American honors, and breaking countless records. She was known not only for her scoring ability but also for her leadership, basketball IQ, and impact on the evolution of women’s basketball. Miller’s ability to play multiple positions, her physicality, and her versatility changed the way the game was played and set the stage for the future of women’s basketball.

The Cheryl Miller Award, therefore, is more than just an individual honor; it is a symbol of everything Miller stood for — excellence, versatility, leadership, and a deep love for the game. The award recognizes players who have demonstrated outstanding performance in their respective collegiate seasons, but it also honors their contributions to the sport’s growth, their leadership qualities, and their ability to inspire others.

For Taylor Thierry to be named the recipient of this award in 2024 is a testament to the level of impact she has had not only on Ohio State’s program but also on the broader landscape of women’s basketball. Thierry’s journey reflects many of the qualities that made Cheryl Miller a household name — determination, skill, leadership, and an unyielding passion for the game.

Taylor Thierry: A Star in the Making

Taylor Thierry’s basketball journey is one of hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her craft. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Thierry’s connection to the Buckeyes runs deep, and her journey to becoming a star for her hometown team is a story of resilience and perseverance. Thierry came to Ohio State as a highly touted recruit, but she quickly proved that she was not just another player; she was a game-changer.

In her early years at Ohio State, Thierry showed flashes of brilliance but truly broke through during her sophomore season. She became the centerpiece of the Buckeyes’ offense, earning a reputation for her ability to score, rebound, and defend with intensity. Thierry’s skill set is incredibly well-rounded, making her a constant threat on both ends of the floor. Whether she is hitting crucial three-pointers, finishing tough layups, or locking down opponents on defense, Thierry brings a level of energy and passion that inspires her teammates to elevate their own performances.

As a junior, Thierry’s impact only grew. She averaged over 18 points per game, along with 7 rebounds and 3 assists, while also earning recognition as one of the best all-around players in the country. Her versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made her one of the most dynamic players in women’s college basketball. Thierry’s leadership was on full display during key games, where she consistently rose to the occasion, leading the Buckeyes to victory in several high-stakes matchups.

In addition to her scoring ability, Thierry’s work ethic and leadership have been integral to Ohio State’s success. Coach Kevin McGuff, who has built a program that has consistently competed at a high level in the Big Ten and nationally, has praised Thierry for her drive, intelligence, and maturity. She is the kind of player who pushes her teammates to be better and who takes ownership of the team’s success. Off the court, Thierry has been equally impressive, often engaging with the community, serving as a role model for younger players, and using her platform to advocate for positive change within the sport.

Her exceptional play and leadership were critical to Ohio State’s strong run in the NCAA tournament and their push for a national championship. Thierry’s performance on the court, combined with her impact off of it, made her an ideal candidate for the Cheryl Miller Award, which honors those who excel both as players and as ambassadors for the game.

An Emotional Moment: Thierry’s Reaction to the Award

When Taylor Thierry was announced as the winner of the Cheryl Miller Award, her reaction was one of overwhelming emotion. She stood at the podium, visibly moved by the honor, and tears filled her eyes as she reflected on the journey that had brought her to this moment.

For Thierry, receiving the Cheryl Miller Award was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to the game. It was a recognition not just of her individual talent but also of her role in elevating Ohio State women’s basketball to new heights. It was a testament to her growth as a player and as a leader, both on and off the court.

Her emotional response was a reflection of the depth of her commitment to the game, her teammates, and the Buckeye community. Thierry’s journey has not been easy, and like many elite athletes, she has faced challenges, obstacles, and moments of doubt. But her ability to persevere and rise above those challenges is what makes this award so meaningful for her. It’s a recognition of her work ethic, her love for the game, and her contributions to her team and the broader basketball community.

The Significance of the Award for Ohio State Women’s Basketball

Taylor Thierry’s win of the Cheryl Miller Award is not just a personal achievement; it’s a major milestone for Ohio State women’s basketball as a program. Under Coach Kevin McGuff, the Buckeyes have steadily ascended to the upper echelons of women’s college basketball, consistently competing at a high level and regularly making deep runs in the NCAA tournament. Thierry’s recognition is a reflection of the program’s success and the talent that has been cultivated within it.

In many ways, Thierry’s victory is a symbol of Ohio State’s growing prominence in women’s college basketball. For a program that has long been competitive but often overshadowed by powerhouse teams like UConn, South Carolina, and Stanford, having a player like Thierry receive such a prestigious individual honor shines a spotlight on the Buckeyes’ rising stature in the sport. Thierry has helped put Ohio State on the map as one of the premier programs in the nation, and her success will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players to follow in her footsteps.

The Cheryl Miller Award also helps elevate the women’s game as a whole, reminding us of the incredible talent and athleticism that exists within the NCAA women’s basketball landscape. By recognizing players like Thierry, the award highlights the growth of women’s basketball and the increasing visibility of female athletes. The recognition of her hard work and achievements is a powerful statement about the direction in which women’s sports are heading, and it will encourage young girls and aspiring basketball players to believe in their potential and strive for excellence.

What’s Next for Taylor Thierry?

As Taylor Thierry looks ahead, the Cheryl Miller Award is just one of many milestones she will likely achieve throughout her career. While her time at Ohio State has been marked by impressive individual achievements, she remains focused on her team’s ultimate goal — winning a national championship. Thierry’s leadership and determination will continue to drive Ohio State as they aim for the pinnacle of college basketball.

Her success has also positioned her well for a potential career in the WNBA. As one of the most versatile and talented players in women’s college basketball, Thierry’s skill set will be highly sought after by professional teams. However, she has made it clear that her current focus is on helping her team reach new heights, and the Cheryl Miller Award serves as a reminder that she has the ability to do just that.

 A Defining Moment for Women’s Basketball

Taylor Thierry’s win of the Cheryl Miller Award is not only a personal achievement for the Ohio State star but also a defining moment for the broader landscape of women’s basketball. It is a testament to the growth of the sport, the talent that continues to emerge at the collegiate level, and the importance of leadership and excellence both on and off the court. Thierry’s emotional reaction to receiving the award speaks volumes about her dedication, her love for the game, and her desire to make a lasting impact.

As she continues her journey, Thierry will undoubtedly be an inspiration to countless young athletes who look up to her as a role model. With her skill, determination, and passion for the game, there’s no doubt that she will continue to make history in women’s basketball. For Ohio State,

the Cheryl Miller Award is just the beginning of an exciting era in women’s sports, and the future looks incredibly bright for Taylor Thierry and the Buckeyes.