Mighty Ohio State wasn't supposed to get a scare so early in the postseason but Northwestern had Buckeye fans across the country sitting on their hands Friday afternoon as the Wildcats forced overtime in the first of four Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal matchups on the day.
Northwestern helped its upset bid by limiting No. 1 Ohio State to 32% shooting from the field an 20% from beyond the 3-point line. Star forward John Shurna rebounded from a quiet game against Minnesota on Thursday to finish with 23 points and five rebounds. Michael Thompson and Drew Crawford finished in double figures as well with 15 and 12 points respective.
The Buckeyes dominated the boards, however, crushing the Wildcats 41-24 overall and 17-5 on the offensive glass, allowing them to get off eight more shots in the game than their opponents. Star freshman Jared Sullinger posted another double-double with 20 points and 18 rebounds. Fellow freshman Aaron Craft finished with 17 points and senior Jon Diebler had 13.
Ohio State advances to take on the winner of Michigan vs. Illinois in the semifinals. Northwestern is likely heading to the NIT with the defeat.