MINNEAPOLIS — Devin Royal scored 19 points, and Bruce Thornton contributed five points in the second overtime as Ohio State overcame Minnesota to secure an exciting 89-88 victory on Monday night.
Thornton started the second overtime with a three-pointer, followed by a three-point play by Aaron Bradshaw. Ques Glover sealed a 7-0 scoring run with a layup, establishing a lead that the Buckeyes maintained for the rest of the game.
In the first overtime, Minnesota had a chance to clinch the win, but Mike Mitchell Jr., despite being a 91% free-throw shooter, missed two attempts with just six seconds on the clock while the Golden Gophers were ahead 73-71. John Mobley Jr. stepped up and made two free throws with four seconds remaining, which ultimately tied the game and required a second overtime period.
Royal showcased his skills with a late-game steal and dunk with five seconds left in regulation, yet he couldn’t convert on a potential three-point play, leaving the score level at 64 and pushing the game into overtime.
Though Royal struggled with his shooting, hitting only 5 of 14 attempts, his performance at the free-throw line was crucial, sinking 9 of 11 shots. He also amassed seven rebounds. Thornton made two three-pointers and was efficient at the foul line, making 8 of 9. Glover came through for the Buckeyes with 13 points from the bench, while Mobley added 12 points. Micah Parrish also contributed with 11 points and seven rebounds.
For Minnesota, Parker Fox led the scoring with 21 points, while Lu’cye Patterson delivered a strong performance with 20 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Both Mitchell and freshman Isaac Asuma scored 18 points, marking a season-high for Asuma.
Fox’s contribution of 11 points enabled Minnesota to head into halftime with a narrow 28-27 lead. Free throw shooting was a significant factor, with Minnesota making just 12 of 27 attempts compared to Ohio State’s impressive 29 of 33.
Looking ahead, Ohio State is set to face No. 15 Oregon on Thursday, while Minnesota will head to Wisconsin for a matchup on Friday.
