It was a high scoring game between the Huskers and the Buckeyes, with both teams having success offensively. We definitely struggled at times, being down by 11 in both the first and second half of the game. However, we were able to claw our way back into the game on several occasions. This included tying it up at the end of regulation and in the first overtime. However, due to some missed opportunities and tough officiating calls that went against us, we were unable to get the victory. We ultimately lost 116 to 114.
The first half did not start out as well as we may have wanted it to. We struggled with some early misses, but were able to hang around. At one point, we were down by 11 but did not let this detour us. We were able to find our footing and keep it close. At halftime, we were only down by six with the score being 45 to 39.
The second half went much better for our Huskers offensively. Once again, we were down by 11 at one point, but we did not let this stop us. Instead, we battled back and kept it a game. Defensively, we struggled at times. It seemed as if every time we scored, Ohio State responded with a basket of their own. It went back-and-forth the entire half. At the end of regulation, we were tied at 89.
The first overtime period started out well for us offensively. We came out firing and with a lot of energy. But the Buckeyes kept up with us. We were once again tied at the end of the first overtime period with the score being 99 to 99. Unfortunately, the second overtime period did not go our way. By this time, we had three players that fouled out of the game.We also missed some critical shots and had some tough fouls against us. This ultimately culminated in us losing the game.
Overall, I was impressed with the effort and fight that this team showed. There were many times that we could have just given up, but we did not do this. Instead, we battled and played hard all game. Another aspect that really hurt us was the officiating, especially in the second half and in overtime. I think the call that stands out the most is the missed travel in the last few seconds of the game. This allowed Ohio State to ice the game and gave Nebraska no chance. Along with this call, there were also some missed technical fouls, which also hurt the Huskers. This was an important game for us, especially with selection Sunday being so close..
Although we lost this game, we definitely showed that we have a lot of fight. One player I want to highlight is Brice Williams. He had a terrific night with a career best 43 total points. Not only is this a career best for him, but it’s also the most points in a game by a single player in Nebraska basketball history. I’m extremely impressed with him and the entire team for showing their toughness and grit, even though we had a lot going against us. Unfortunately we lost, but hopefully we can get it done against Iowa on Sunday. This is a must win game for us to keep our hopes alive for the Big Ten tournament. It’s also the last game of the regular season and I don’t know about you, but I would love to beat our rivals. Tip off against Iowa is set for 11:30 on Sunday.
GBR
