Wisconsin Upsets Purdue In Overtime Thriller For Championship Spot

Wisconsin players celebrate after their overtime win over Purdue following an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinal round of the Big Ten Conference tournament, Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Min

Wisconsin pulled off a stunning upset in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals, defeating top-seeded Purdue 76-75 in overtime on Saturday. The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, with both teams showcasing their resilience and determination.

The hero of the game for Wisconsin was Max Klesmit, who sank a crucial runner in the lane with just 4.8 seconds remaining in overtime to secure the victory. Klesmit's clutch shot came on the heels of teammate Chucky Hepburn's game-tying layup at the end of regulation, sending the game into overtime.

Chucky Hepburn's game-tying layup sends the game into overtime.

Max Klesmit's game-winning shot secures Wisconsin's victory over Purdue.

AJ Storr and Klesmit contribute to Wisconsin's win with strong performances.

Zach Edey leads Purdue with 28 points and 11 rebounds.

Edey breaks school record for career points in the game.

Purdue falls short of winning both regular-season and tournament titles.

Wisconsin advances to Big Ten Championship game after defeating Purdue.

Fans can expect an exciting championship showdown in the Big Ten Tournament.

Purdue focuses on NCAA Tournament selection after loss to Wisconsin.

Hepburn was instrumental in Wisconsin's win, finishing with an impressive 22 points. AJ Storr also had a strong performance with 20 points, while Klesmit contributed 12 points, five assists, and five rebounds.

On the Purdue side, Zach Edey was a standout performer, leading the Boilermakers with 28 points and 11 rebounds. Edey also made history during the game, surpassing Rick Mount's school record for career points.

Despite Edey's stellar performance, Purdue fell just short of victory. The Boilermakers were aiming to become only the second Big Ten program to win both the regular-season title and the conference tournament in consecutive years.

The game was not without its share of drama, with tempers flaring early on and several key moments of tension throughout. Ultimately, it was Wisconsin's resilience and composure in critical moments that propelled them to victory.

With this win, Wisconsin advances to the Big Ten Championship game, where they will face the winner of the Illinois vs. Nebraska matchup. Purdue, on the other hand, will now turn their attention to the upcoming NCAA Tournament selection, eagerly awaiting their seeding and matchup.

Wisconsin's victory over Purdue marks a significant moment in the Big Ten Tournament and sets the stage for an exciting championship showdown. Fans can expect a thrilling finale as Wisconsin looks to continue their impressive run and claim the conference title.

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