Updated: April 14, 2026
If you’ve been following women’s college basketball, you’ve probably heard the name Cotie McMahon. The dynamic 6-foot forward from Dayton, Ohio, has lit up the court with her scoring ability, versatility, and fierce competitiveness. From her standout freshman year at Ohio State to her impressive senior season with the Ole Miss Rebels, Cotie continues to turn heads as a potential high pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. But behind every great athlete is a strong support system, and in Cotie’s case, that foundation starts with her parents, Antoine and Stacey McMahon. Their guidance, athletic roots, and unwavering encouragement have played a huge role in shaping her into the star she is today.
Cotie McMahon was born on May 4, 2004, in Dayton, Ohio. She grew up in a close-knit family that valued hard work, discipline, and chasing dreams. Her journey from a talented high school recruit at Centerville High School to a collegiate standout is inspiring, but it’s the family dynamic that often gets fans curious. Who are the people who raised this talented athlete? Let’s take a deeper look at the parents who helped Cotie McMahon become a household name in women’s basketball.
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Who Are Cotie McMahon’s Parents?
Cotie McMahon’s parents are Antoine McMahon and Stacey McMahon, both hailing from Dayton, Ohio. They are proud American nationals with deep roots in the local community. While they maintain a relatively private life, their influence on Cotie’s career is undeniable. Antoine and Stacey have been there through every step—from early morning practices to big-game moments—providing the stability and love every young athlete needs.
Their family includes multiple children, with Cotie having siblings like brothers Bryce and Liam, and sisters Joss (and mentions of Harley in some accounts). The McMahon household sounds like a lively one filled with energy, sports talk, and mutual support. Stacey has openly shared her pride in her kids on social media, calling them her “whole world” alongside her partner Antoine. This tight family bond has clearly helped Cotie stay grounded amid the pressures of elite-level basketball.
Antoine McMahon: The Athletic Father Figure
Antoine McMahon brings his own athletic background to the family story. He played football during his high school days at Wayne High School in Ohio. That competitive spirit and understanding of what it takes to succeed in sports have been invaluable for Cotie. Fathers who have walked the path of athletics often know exactly how to push their kids without breaking them, and Antoine seems to have struck that balance perfectly.
He has provided discipline and encouragement throughout Cotie’s journey. Whether it was helping with training drills or offering advice during tough times, Antoine’s presence has been a steady force. Many reports highlight how the combined athletic influences from both parents created a home environment where striving for excellence felt natural. Cotie has spoken warmly about the support she receives from her dad, crediting him for helping instill resilience and a strong work ethic that carries her through long seasons and intense competition.
Stacey McMahon: The Driving Force Behind Cotie’s Basketball Dream
If Antoine brought the football influence, Stacey McMahon played a pivotal role in introducing Cotie to basketball. When Cotie was young, she wasn’t immediately hooked on the sport, but her mother saw the potential and gently encouraged her to give it a real shot. That early push from Stacey turned out to be life-changing.
Stacey has been described as instrumental in Cotie’s development. She not only got her daughter started but also stayed deeply involved, worrying about things like adjusting to college life when Cotie enrolled early at Ohio State at just 17. Cotie shares a particularly close bond with her mother and maternal grandmother, both of whom instilled a powerful work ethic from a young age. Fans often hear Cotie mention her mom and grandma as her biggest inspirations for perseverance and dedication.
Stacey’s support goes beyond the court. She has been there for the emotional side of the journey too—helping Cotie navigate the highs of awards like Big Ten Freshman of the Year and the challenges of transferring to Ole Miss, where she continued to shine with record-breaking performances.
The Family’s Impact on Cotie McMahon’s Career
The influence of Antoine and Stacey McMahon on Cotie’s success cannot be overstated. Growing up in Dayton, Cotie benefited from a balanced upbringing that combined athletic genes, emotional support, and practical guidance. Her parents’ combined efforts helped her become a four-star recruit, earn her first college offer in seventh grade, and develop into a player who averaged impressive numbers like 19.5 points per game in her senior season at Ole Miss while leading the team in multiple categories.
Here’s a quick overview of key family-related information:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Father | Antoine McMahon (played football at Wayne High School) |
| Mother | Stacey McMahon (key in introducing Cotie to basketball) |
| Hometown | Dayton, Ohio |
| Siblings | Brothers: Bryce, Liam; Sisters: Joss (and Harley) |
| Family Influence | Discipline, encouragement, strong work ethic |
| Ethnicity/Nationality | African American / American |
| Key Support | Early enrollment in college, transfers, and career milestones |
This family dynamic created the perfect mix of motivation and stability. Cotie’s parents emphasized education, character, and resilience alongside sports, which has helped her handle the spotlight with maturity.
In long conversations with coaches and teammates, it’s clear that Cotie carries her family’s values onto the court every single time she steps out. From leading her high school team to a conference title to becoming an All-SEC performer and earning All-American honors, her rise reflects the quiet sacrifices and loud cheers from Antoine and Stacey. They didn’t just raise a basketball player—they raised a young woman who knows how to fight, lead, and stay humble.
The McMahon family story reminds us that success in sports is rarely a solo effort. It’s built on late-night drives to games, honest feedback after tough losses, and endless belief even when the path gets rocky. Cotie has often credited her parents and grandmother for helping her find her voice and push through adversity, including personal challenges like managing PCOS while competing at the highest level.
As Cotie McMahon eyes a professional career with the Washington Mystics (after being selected in the 2026 WNBA Draft), her family continues to be her anchor. Their story is a beautiful example of how parental love and involvement can fuel greatness without stealing the spotlight.
In conclusion, Antoine and Stacey McMahon represent the heart of Cotie McMahon’s journey. Their athletic background, emotional support, and consistent encouragement have helped transform a young girl from Dayton into one of the most exciting forwards in women’s basketball. As fans, we get to enjoy Cotie’s highlight-reel plays and record-setting performances, but it’s worth remembering the family that made it all possible. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or just love inspiring underdog stories, the McMahon family proves that behind every star is a team that believes in them from day one. Keep an eye on Cotie—she’s just getting started, and her parents’ legacy will shine through every step of her professional career.