Call it the Northwestern Invitational Tournament as Cats dominate Boston College

Northwestern is rolling through the NIT. All five starters scored in double figures as Northwestern put on an offensive clinic today against Boston College. The Wildcats easily won their second round game, beating BC 85-67. This is the first time that NU has ever won a second-round game in the NIT.

Northwestern, playing as the 4 seed, built an eight point halftime lead with a late first half run. The Cats didn't let up on offense in the second half, managing to score 47 to top seed BC's 36.

Juice Thompson, who is playing to extend his career, had another great game, scoring 22 points while hitting 6 of 12 three-pointers. John Shurna had another solid game with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Luka Mirkovic, playing without his mask, hit all six of his field goal attempts, and had seven assists with no turnovers.

After soundly beating McNeese State on the road in the first round, Boston College looked flat in their home gym. They were out rebounded 29-20, with Northwestern getting 9 offensive boards to BC's 2. The Eagles shot and made a lot more free throws, but NU outscored them by 30 on made three-pointers.

With this victory, Northwestern has 20 wins on the season for the second year in a row. With a win in the quarterfinals, Bill Carmody's team will break the record for wins in a season by NU. The Cats will face the winner of Monday's Oklahoma State - Washington State game. Northwestern will be the visiting team.