Corvallis, Oregon – The women’s college basketball team at Oregon State had a standout season with 25 wins and a thrilling second-round appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Among the memorable moments of the season, there was one that stood out above all others. Talia von Oelhoffen’s buzzer-beating three-pointer to secure a 79-77 victory over UCLA on February 16 captivated fans and showcased the team’s resilience.
The game-winning play was not a stroke of luck but rather a well-executed strategy that had been carefully planned in advance. Assistant coach Aleah Goodman devised the play after analyzing video footage, which caught the eye of head coach Scott Rueck. Trailing by one point with just 1.4 seconds left on the clock, Rueck made the decisive call to run the play that Goodman had crafted.
Goodman, who had transitioned from a successful collegiate playing career to coaching, brought a fresh perspective and strategic mindset to the team. Rueck had recognized her coaching potential years earlier, even before her playing days at Oregon State. Under Goodman’s guidance, the team has seen significant growth and success, culminating in key victories like the one against UCLA.
Despite having the opportunity to pursue professional playing opportunities, Goodman chose to shift her focus to coaching. Her decision paid off when she joined the coaching staff at Duke, under the mentorship of Kara Lawson. Reflecting on her coaching journey, Goodman highlighted the invaluable experience she gained at Duke, which prepared her for her current role at Oregon State.
Now back at her alma mater as an assistant coach, Goodman brings a unique perspective to the team, having experienced the highs and lows of collegiate athletics firsthand. Her close relationship with the players, including former teammates like Talia von Oelhoffen, fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual respect within the team.
Goodman’s passion for coaching and her knack for developing strategic plays continue to drive the team toward success. As she looks ahead, Goodman remains focused on empowering her players and helping the team reach new heights on the court. With her guidance, Oregon State’s women’s basketball team is poised for even greater achievements in the seasons to come.