Ohio State’s double overtime victory over Nebraska knocked the Cornhuskers out of NCAA Tournament contention, popping their bubble.

In a thrilling and emotional game that had fans on the edge of their seats, Ohio State basketball defeated Nebraska in double overtime, effectively ending the Cornhuskers’ hopes of making the NCAA Tournament. The win, which showcased both teams’ resilience, grit, and determination, was a dramatic chapter in the Buckeyes’ season and a devastating blow to Nebraska’s aspirations.

This game wasn’t just another regular-season matchup; it was a pivotal contest for Nebraska, which entered the game firmly on the NCAA Tournament bubble. With a win, the Cornhuskers would have significantly improved their résumé, possibly securing a spot in the tournament. But in a game that went back and forth for 50 minutes, it was Ohio State that ultimately triumphed, sending Nebraska back to the drawing board and out of NCAA Tournament contention.

Let’s dive into how this double-overtime thriller unfolded, what it means for both teams moving forward, and the ripple effects on the college basketball landscape as we head into the postseason.

A Back-and-Forth Battle: Setting the Stage

The game between Ohio State and Nebraska was billed as a must-win for both teams. Ohio State, despite some struggles throughout the season, was still hanging on to slim hopes of securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament, while Nebraska’s bubble was extremely fragile. The Cornhuskers had been battling for a spot in the tournament for the better part of the season, and a victory over Ohio State would have given them a significant boost to their case.

As the game tipped off, it was immediately clear that neither team was willing to give an inch. Ohio State came out strong, playing with intensity and purpose. They were determined to protect their home court, and their defensive pressure early on seemed to rattle the Cornhuskers. However, Nebraska wasn’t about to back down. The Cornhuskers quickly settled into a rhythm, thanks to the stellar play of their standout guard, Jamarcus Lawrence, who kept his team in the game with clutch scoring and timely assists.

The first half was filled with momentum swings as both teams traded baskets. Ohio State’s shooting guard, Brice Sensabaugh, had a strong showing in the opening minutes, knocking down a couple of three-pointers and driving the lane with authority. Nebraska countered with Derrick Walker, their big man, who controlled the paint, scoring efficiently inside and grabbing key rebounds.

Despite Nebraska’s offensive firepower, Ohio State’s defense began to stifle their rhythm. The Buckeyes made a concerted effort to limit the Cornhuskers’ transition game, forcing them into a half-court offense where Ohio State’s length and athleticism proved difficult to overcome.

By halftime, Ohio State had a narrow lead, but it was clear this game was far from over. The intensity and pace of play had ramped up, and both teams were fully aware that every possession could be the difference between tournament glory and tournament heartbreak.

The Tension Builds: Second Half Drama

The second half began with even more intensity, and as the game wore on, it became clear that neither team was going to give in easily. Nebraska came out firing, with Sam Griesel hitting a crucial three-pointer to give the Cornhuskers their first lead of the game. However, Ohio State responded in kind, as Zed Key and Sensabaugh continued to showcase their offensive prowess.

As the clock ticked down to the final minutes of regulation, both teams found themselves in a tense back-and-forth. The game had become a battle of wills, with Nebraska trying to secure a lead that would carry them into the tournament conversation and Ohio State hoping to end any possibility of an upset bid that might derail their own postseason hopes.

With just under a minute left in regulation, Nebraska led by a narrow margin, but a clutch jumper from Justice Sueing tied the game for Ohio State. Nebraska had one final possession to take the lead, but Brice Sensabaugh was there to contest a potential game-winning shot by Jamarcus Lawrence, sending the game into overtime.

Double Overtime: Heart-Stopping Moments

As the teams headed into overtime, the tension in the arena was palpable. Both teams were clearly exhausted, but neither was willing to give an inch. Every play felt monumental, every basket an opportunity to shift the momentum.

In the first overtime, Nebraska had a chance to win, but missed opportunities at the free-throw line and a few rushed shots kept them from putting the game away. Ohio State, too, had its own struggles, with a couple of missed layups and turnovers, but the Buckeyes managed to stay in it, thanks in large part to the gritty play of their senior leaders, who refused to let their team falter.

The second overtime was a different story, however. Ohio State’s energy seemed to rise as Nebraska began to look worn down. Key moments came from Sueing, who hit a critical three-pointer to give the Buckeyes the lead in the final minute of double overtime. On the defensive end, Roddy Gayle Jr. made a key steal and blocked a shot, showing why Ohio State’s defense has been one of the most formidable in the Big Ten.

Ultimately, it was a free throw by Brice Sensabaugh with just seconds remaining that sealed the game, giving Ohio State a dramatic 88-86 victory.

The Aftermath: Nebraska’s NCAA Tournament Hopes Dashed

With the final buzzer sounding, Ohio State’s players celebrated their hard-fought victory, but for Nebraska, it was a heartbreaking loss that dashed their NCAA Tournament dreams. For a team that had been on the bubble for weeks, this defeat was the death knell for their hopes of an at-large bid. Nebraska’s NCAA Tournament résumé had already been lacking, and this loss, which saw them fail to capitalize on a golden opportunity, meant that the Cornhuskers would need to win the Big Ten Tournament in order to secure a spot in March Madness.

This loss brought a harsh reality to Nebraska fans, who had seen their team play some of the best basketball in recent weeks, but not enough to warrant a tournament bid without a victory in the conference tournament. While they still have the Big Ten Tournament to look forward to, their chances are slim, and the heartbreak of this double-overtime loss will linger long after the final buzzer.

For Ohio State, the win was crucial for their postseason hopes as well. Though the Buckeyes still have work to do, this victory helped bolster their own NCAA Tournament résumé, and they can now head into the final stretch of the season with a bit more confidence. Ohio State’s victory over Nebraska could serve as a springboard, especially as they work to secure key wins over higher-ranked Big Ten teams.

What This Game Means for Both Teams Moving Forward

For Nebraska, the outcome of this game is a painful reminder of how small margins can determine a team’s postseason fate. The Cornhuskers were so close to securing a victory that would have significantly boosted their tournament hopes. However, with this loss, their dreams of playing in the NCAA Tournament in 2025 are, for all intents and purposes, over unless they can somehow put together a remarkable run in the Big Ten Tournament. Even with a win there, the selection committee may still be hesitant, given Nebraska’s overall body of work.

On the other hand, Ohio State finds itself with renewed hope. While the Buckeyes still need to continue their strong play, their victory over Nebraska keeps them firmly in the hunt for an at-large bid. If Ohio State can build on this performance, especially with key players like Brice Sensabaugh and Zed Key stepping up in clutch moments, the Buckeyes could very well make a case for a place in the NCAA Tournament.

The Bigger Picture: NCAA Tournament Bubble Implications

This game was emblematic of what happens when two teams on the NCAA Tournament bubble meet late in the season. The result has massive implications for both teams. For Nebraska, this loss may mark the end of their NCAA Tournament hopes, while for Ohio State, it could be a potential springboard for a deeper postseason run.

As we head toward Selection Sunday, games like these will play an important role in determining which teams make the cut and which are left out in the cold. The Buckeyes’ victory was a reminder that every game counts, and no team is guaranteed a spot without earning it on the court.

 A Memorable Double Overtime Classic

Ohio State’s double-overtime victory over Nebraska was a microcosm of everything that makes college basketball so exciting. From the drama of each overtime period to the heartbreak for Nebraska, it was a game that lived up to the hype. For Ohio State, it was a much-needed win that could help them secure a place in the NCAA Tournament, while for Nebraska, it was a crushing defeat that ultimately ended their tournament hopes.

As both teams move forward, Ohio State will look to build on this win and continue to strengthen its resume, while Nebraska will have to regroup and hope for a miracle in the Big Ten Tournament. But no matter what happens next, the Buckeyes’ win in double overtime will be remembered as one of the most significant moments of the 2025 college basketball season.