EVANSTON, Ill. — Nick Martinelli hit a critical baseline jumper just before the overtime buzzer, leading Northwestern to a 76-74 triumph over Maryland on Thursday night. This victory marked an end to Northwestern’s three-game losing streak.

Northwestern initially held a 64-56 advantage with just under five minutes left in regulation. However, Maryland rallied, finishing the period with an 11-2 scoring run, culminating in Ja’Kobi Gillespie’s layup with 6.9 seconds remaining that tied the game at 68. Northwestern’s Brooks Barnhizer had a chance to win it in regulation but his layup bounced off the rim, allowing Derik Queen to secure the rebound for Maryland.

In the overtime period, Maryland’s Gillespie once again came through with a layup, tying the score at 74 with just 6.9 seconds left. He then managed to disrupt Ty Berry’s play at the other end, leading to a deflection off Maryland forward Julian Reese and giving Northwestern possession with only 0.7 seconds remaining. Martinelli utilized a screen to create space and knocked down a runner in front of the Northwestern bench, triggering a celebratory rush from his teammates.

Martinelli was a standout for Northwestern, finishing the night with 22 points. Barnhizer contributed significantly as well, posting 20 points along with 10 rebounds and five assists, while Berry added 15 points to the effort.

On the Maryland side, Reese emerged as the top scorer with 23 points, supported by Gillespie with 14 points, Rodney Rice with 13, and Queen pulling down 14 rebounds alongside nine points. Maryland struggled with turnovers, committing 16 throughout the game.

The first half was closely contested, featuring 11 lead changes and nine ties, wrapping up with Northwestern narrowly ahead at 38-37 after Martinelli’s buzzer-beater. By the end of the game, there were a total of 16 ties and 15 lead changes.

Looking ahead, Maryland is set to host Nebraska on Sunday, while Northwestern will compete against No. 20 Michigan.