Northwestern learned a bit about how to play against Ohio State in the week between games with the Buckeyes, but the result was the same.
No. 5 Ohio State (17-3, 5-1), led by freshman Greg Oden’s 17 points and 17 rebounds, had to break a sweat Wednesday night but went home with a 59-50 victory. In Columbus earlier this month, the Wildcats (11-9, 1-6) were a 73-41 loser.
“I feel better about it than I did seven days ago, but we’ve played three Big Ten teams at home now: Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio State,” Northwestern coach Bill Carmody said. “Some pretty good teams, but every game seems the same. We get down to the last two or three minutes and we’re right there but we can’t seem turn it.”
The potential was there for an upset as Northwestern shot Ohio State out of its zone in the first half. But down the stretch they couldn’t find the hoop. The Wildcats were outrebounded 39-19 and had fewer defensive rebounds (14) than Ohio State had offensive rebounds (15).
The Buckeyes, who were led by Ivan Harris’ 18 points, also made 15 of 24 free throws while Northwestern had just two chances and made one.
Northwestern drew within 49-46 on a three-pointer by freshman Kevin Coble with 5:31 left in the game. Ohio State responded with a 10-4 run down the stretch.
Oden, still recovering from surgery on his right (shooting) wrist made 2 of 4 free throws left handed and had a basket, a block and several rebounds during the final run.
“I’m really amazed every day with the things he can do,” Ohio State coach Thad Matta said. “It’s just length, his timing. He has a great feel for where the ball is going to come off when it leaves the shooter’s hands. Those were big plays.”
Northwestern tried to gang up on Oden, who was mobbed like a rock star after the game, in its zone. Eventually, the probable No. 1 pick in June’s NBA draft prevailed. Wildcats senior Vince Scott, who hit three three-pointers and had three assists, couldn’t handle him.
“Vince did about as well as he could,” said senior Tim Doyle, who led Northwestern with 15 points. “Oden is going to be a pro and Vince is going to be an investment banker.”
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rhanley@tribune.com
