Northwestern Wildcats. (Photo by Chris Chambers/Getty Images)
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (AP) – Drew Crawford had 20 points and nine rebounds for Northwestern, leading the Wildcats to a thrilling 72-69 overtime victory Saturday night over Illinois State at the South Padre Island Invitational Tournament.
After Crawford hit a bucket with 25 seconds left and give Northwestern (6-0) a 3-point lead at 55-52, Tyler Brown came through in the clutch for the Redbirds, nailing a 3-pointer to make it 55-all with 10 seconds to go.
In overtime, Brown brought Illinois State (5-1) closer once again, sinking a 3-pointer with 6 seconds left to cut the Wildcats lead to a bucket, 71-69. Crawford hit a free throw after Brown fouled him to make it 72-69 and time expired after Brown turned it over on the ensuing possession.
Brown scored 36 points, making 12-of-20 shot attempts including seven 3-point baskets.
Jackie Carmichael had a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds in the loss for Illinois State.
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