COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, Jackson Shelstad led the No. 15-ranked Oregon team to a 73-71 victory over Ohio State with a standout performance, scoring 24 points and hitting two crucial free throws just seven seconds before the final buzzer.

Nate Bittle contributed significantly as well, finishing the game with 21 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks. Oregon, now holding a 14-2 record overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten, regained the lead at 70-67 thanks to a shot from TJ Bamba with 40 seconds remaining. Ohio State quickly answered back, but a turnover from Shelstad, who was trapped in the corner, allowed freshman John Mobley Jr. to sink two free throws, putting the Buckeyes ahead 71-70 with just 12.6 seconds left on the clock.

Displaying poise, Shelstad charged down the court and managed to draw a foul, subsequently nailing the two free throws needed to shift the score in favor of Oregon. Bruce Thornton of Ohio State attempted a 3-pointer from the top of the key to reclaim the lead but missed, allowing Bittle to secure the vital rebound.

Thornton was the standout for Ohio State (10-6, 2-3 Big Ten) with 20 points, while Mobley added 16 to the scoreline.

A key statistic from the game highlights Oregon’s resilience, as they improved their record to 6-1 in games where they were trailing at halftime. At the break, Ohio State was leading 32-27, even after struggling with their shooting, making only one of their final seven attempts during the half.

One of the turning points in the game occurred when Shelstad made a crucial open 3-pointer with 1:35 left on the clock, putting Oregon ahead 68-67 for the first time since they owned a 16-15 margin earlier in the game.

Historically, this loss marked a significant moment for Ohio State, as it was their first defeat in their series against Oregon since the 1939 NCAA championship game, where the Oregon Webfoots triumphed 46-33. Despite this recent setback, the Buckeyes have a slight edge in the series, leading 3-2.

Looking forward, Oregon will continue their road trip, facing Penn State on Sunday, while Ohio State will enjoy a weekend off before heading to play against Wisconsin on Tuesday.