Ohio State Outlasts Illinois in 2 OT Thriller

Ohio State entered another tight basketball game as they went head to head with Illinois in a double-overtime victory. The Buckeyes trailed much of the game; however, the team was rejuvenated with a 20-0 run ignited the Buckeyes in the 2nd half. However, even with 20-0 run, the Fighting Illini still fought back enough to the tie the game and throw the game into overtime. They even had a chance to win it when they got an open look with 3 seconds to spare. However, the open lay-up didn't quite make it passed the buzzer the first time. In the first overtime, Illinois had another chance to win the game but had another wasted shot as time had expired yet again.

The biggest story of the game could be marked by the infamous junior for Ohio State, Evan turner. Helping his position as player of the year, he finished the game with 31 points (with much of his points after regulation), 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. With the game-winning three point shot of the previous game versus Michigan, Evan Turner is clearly on a mission. William Buford added another 22 points along with 10 rebounds. Another 14 points by Jon Diebler and 12 points by David Lighty help convince the victory in Ohio State's favor, despite Illinois's domination in rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, and turnovers.

Illinois had 5 guys in double figures, including 22 points from Demetri McCamey, 15 points from D.J. Richardson, and 13 points from Mike Davis - along with a staggering 18 rebounds. However, the 20 - 0 run from Ohio State deemed to be to hard to revive from, despite the 2 overtimes that the two teams endured.

Ohio State will proceed into the Big Ten finals on Sunday, playing Minnesota who surprisingly whooped Purdue on this Saturday afternoon. The Minnesota Gophers are looking to seal themselves a spot in that NCAA March Madness by winning the Big Ten title against the Buckeyes.

Sources:

ESPN.com