OSU beats UM in Big Ten semifinal round

3/12/2011

INDIANAPOLIS – No. 1 ranked Ohio State used a surge in the second half to put some distance between itself and rival Michigan and then had to hang on through a frantic final moments to take a 68-61 win in the semifinal round of the Big Ten Tournament on Saturday.

The Buckeyes (31-2) led just 47-45 with about 10 minutes to play in the game, but junior guard William Buford scored hit a trio of baskets as Ohio State went on a 16-point run. Ohio State led 63-45 after freshman point guard Aaron Craft hit two free throws with under five minutes left in the game.

Michigan closed with a flurry and got within four points, 65-61, in the final moments.

 Ohio State then spread it out and used the clock to its advantage. The Buckeyes were led by senior Jon Diebler with 16 points, while Buford scored 14. Freshman Jared Sullinger had 13 rebounds and 14 points for Ohio State.

The Buckeyes advance to Sunday’s Big Ten Tournament championship game against the winner of the Michigan State—Penn State semifinal.

 Michigan was led by freshman guard Tim Hardaway Jr. with 15 points. The Wolverines (20-13) are expected to get a bid to the NCAA Tournament on Sunday.