Shurna Leads Cats to NIT Win

John Shurna scored 25 points as Northwestern took care of Milwaukee 70-61 Wednesday night. Juice Thompson contributed 20 points in what was most likely the last home game in his collegiate career. It was Northwestern's first postseason victory since they made it to the second round of the NIT in 1994.

Milwaukee had a scoring drought of over nine minutes in the first half and Northwestern capitalized with an 18-0 run. The Wildcats would not give up the lead that they gained during that run, although Milwaukee got within six in the second half. Northwestern hit a couple of threes at this point and hung on for a nine-point win.

Northwestern forced 16 turnovers and had 16 offensive rebounds. Milwaukee shot better from the field, but Northwestern outscored them by ten from the free throw line. Both teams shot a ton of threes, with Northwestern going 12 for 34 and Milwaukee hitting on 11 of 33. The Panthers' bright yellow shoes failed to have an effect on the game.

Up Next for Northwestern: Boston College, who beat McNeese State. BC had to play that game at McNeese State due to scheduling conflicts, but it looks like they will host Northwestern Saturday at 11 AM ET. The game will be televised on ESPN. Northwestern is the 4 seed in their bracket and BC is the 1 seed.