Ohio State outlasted Minnesota in a hard-fought Big Ten battle Tuesday night, pulling away in overtime for an 82–74 victory at the Schottenstein Center. The Buckeyes relied on late defensive stops, extra possessions and a decisive finish in the extra period to secure their fifth conference win.
Ohio State (13–5, 5–3 Big Ten) carried a slim 31–28 lead into halftime after an impressive defensive effort that limited Minnesota to just seven made field goals in the opening half. The Golden Gophers responded after the break by attacking the glass and getting to the free-throw line, slowly chipping away at the Buckeyes’ advantage and turning the game into a tight, back-and-forth affair.
The closing minutes of regulation featured constant momentum swings, with 10 lead changes as neither team could gain separation. Bruce Thornton gave Ohio State a late edge, but Minnesota answered to force overtime with the score tied at 67.
Once in overtime, the Buckeyes took control. Devin Royal scored five of his 16 points in the extra period, and Colin White delivered crucial defensive plays, including a key steal that led to a fast-break layup. Ohio State outscored Minnesota 15–7 in overtime to seal the win.
John Mobley Jr. led the Buckeyes for the second straight game with 26 points, connecting on five three-pointers. Thornton finished with 23 points, seven rebounds and four steals, while Christoph Tilly added 11 points and five rebounds, highlighted by the 1,000th point of his collegiate career in the second half.
Royal chipped in 16 points and five rebounds as Ohio State’s defense held Minnesota to 39.7 percent shooting and secured a 42–31 rebounding advantage. Minnesota was led by Jaylen Crocker-Johnson’s 26-point, eight-rebound performance.
