CHICAGO — In a game defined by massive runs and a frantic finish, eighth-seeded Ohio State narrowly escaped the United Center with a 72-69 victory over Iowa, ending the Hawkeyes’ Big Ten Tournament run in the second round.
Despite trailing by as many as 16 points in the second half, Iowa clawed back to within a single possession in the final minute. However, the comeback fell just short as Isaia Howard’s potential game-tying three-pointer missed the mark at the buzzer.
The Thornton Takeover
After a competitive first half that saw the Buckeyes lead 34-30, Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton single-handedly shifted the momentum. Thornton ignited a 17-5 run to start the second half, scoring the Buckeyes’ first 14 points of the period.
The explosion allowed Ohio State to build a comfortable 51-35 lead with just under 14 minutes remaining. The Buckeyes’ efficiency was the story of the afternoon, as they dominated the interior:
| Stat Category | Ohio State | Iowa |
| Field Goal % | 55.3% | — |
| Points in Paint | 36 | 20 |
| Final Score | 72 | 69 |
Stirtz Makes History Amid Iowa’s Rally
Iowa didn’t go quietly. Led by Bennett Stirtz, the Hawkeyes orchestrated a late 15-4 run, slicing a 12-point deficit down to just 70-69 with 38 seconds left on the clock.
Stirtz was the lone Hawkeye to finish in double figures, scoring 17 points on efficient 6-of-11 shooting. In the process, he solidified his place in the school record books:
-
Record Watch: Stirtz now has 661 points this season.
-
Milestone: He officially moved past Andre Woolridge (645) for 7th place on Iowa’s all-time single-season scoring list.
Shooting the Lights Out
The Buckeyes’ victory was built on high-percentage looks. After a slow 1-for-6 start, Ohio State found their rhythm by attacking the rim, at one point making seven consecutive field goals in the paint. They shot a blistering 53.8% in the second half to keep the charging Hawkeyes at bay.
What’s Next?
-
Ohio State (21-11): Advances to the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals.
-
Iowa (21-12): The Hawkeyes now head back to Iowa City to await their postseason fate. They will learn their seeding during the NCAA Selection Sunday show, airing March 15 at 5 p.m. CT on CBS.
