COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The No. 2-ranked Ohio State women’s ice hockey team were able to get a massive 3-2 win Saturday at the OSU ice rink over the top-ranked Wisconsin Badgers.

In one of the most highly anticipated games of the season, the Buckeyes were able to hand the Badgers their first loss of the season. Ohio State improved its record to 12-3-2 thanks to a fast start in the first period.

The Buckeyes took the lead just four and a half minutes into the first period through Makenna Webster. A first period power play goal from Maddi Wheeler six minutes later doubled Ohio State’s lead before Wisconsin brought one back two minutes later.

After a scoreless second period, Ohio State regained its two-goal advantage with a Kiara Zanon shorthanded goal at the 12-minute mark. Wisconsin got its second goal 30 seconds later but could not tie the game at three-a-piece.

These two programs have been the best in the country for years as Ohio State and Wisconsin have combined to win the last five NCAA championships. The Buckeyes won titles in 2022 and 2024, beating Wisconsin in the Frozen Four final last season. Wisconsin’s last title came in 2023 over Ohio State in Duluth, Minnesota.

Next up for the Buckeyes is a road trip to play Minnesota State on Friday and Saturday. This will be the team’s last WCHA series of the calendar year with face-off for Friday’s game at 7 p.m. and 3 p.m. for Saturday.