The hottest team in America went cold in Indianapolis for the start of the Big Ten Tournament.
Nebraska (10-22) led Northwestern (15-15) by as much as 15, but the Wildcats took control in the second half to squeak out a 71-69 victory. With the loss, the Huskers are done for the year.
NU, the red one, used first half runs of 7-0, 5-0, and 10-0 to hold a 39-25 lead at the break. The Huskers shot shot 51 percent in the first half while holding Northwestern to just 27 percent.
The Big Red momentum carried into the first media break of the second half, with Nebraska up 50-35. That’s when the wheels came off.
Northwestern tore off on a 14-0 run to trail by just one. Nebraska’s defensive effort and offensive decision making reverted to the team previous to that on a three game winning streak.
The Wildcats finally got over the hump to take the lead at 65-64. That was in the midst seven minute stretch without a made field goal.
Despite the issues, Nebraska had multiple chances at the end to win the game.
Trailing by one, Alonzo Verge tore up the floor and ran over a Northwestern defender. Charge.
After another Wildcat trip to the line produced just one make, Trey McGowens tried his hand at an out of control run at the rim. No charge, but the wild shot attempt was deflected and the clock ran out.
Nebraska shot just 31 percent in the second half. For the game, the Huskers made just three 3s on 15 attempts.
Verge led all scorers with 21 points while adding nine assists and tying for the team-high of seven rebounds. He added four steals.
Derrick Walker scored 16 points and also grabbed seven rebounds. Lat Mayen was the other Husker with seven boards, adding nine points.
After missing Sunday’s game at Wisconsin with a hand injury, Bryce McGowens returned to the lineup Wednesday. He finished just 2-of-10 from the floor, grabbing three rebounds.
Nebraska now heads into another offseason with plenty of turnover possible. Several players have the option of returning for an extra year of eligibility, and the freshman McGowens must decide whether or not to enter the NBA Draft.