Staying alive for the NIT
Northwestern opened on a 24-2 run in Saturday's dominating 69-53 victory over hapless Michigan. And, as we know, those 24-2 runs will just kill ya.
"I thought our full-court press gave them problems," coach Bill Carmody said. "Michael Jenkins did a great job. They had trouble getting into their half-court offense and we had a lot to do with that."
Vedran Vukusic hit 11-of-13 shots and scored 26 points as the Cats improved to 14-13 (6-8 Big Ten) on the season. Mohammed Hachad had another solid game with 14 points and some key defensive plays.
Vince Scott also continued his year as the team's most improved player with four threes. Scott is turning into the Cats' newest Aaron Jennings. He's deadly from the top of the key and hit 4-of-5 three-pointers. Carmody joked that Scott was calling plays for himself in the huddle.
On the negative side, T.J. Parker scored only three points and was non-existent on the floor. Tim Doyle gave another of his patented scoreless games where he makes two no-look passes and everyone oohs and aahs.
And Evan Seacat continued to ruin any chance for playing time next year. Seacat missed another wide-open three, but saved his best moment for late in the first half. After the Cats worked the clock and missed the rim on a three-pointer, Seacat retrieved the ball at the top of the key and motioned for the team to reset the offense as the shot clock nearly expired. Carmody immediately yanked him from the game. One would assume that Seacat's seemingly endless chances at playing time have expired.
Jenkins had another great game with nine points and defensive pressure on Michigan's guards. Jenkins' play has opened eyes this year and the walk-on senior has one more year of eligibility. Would he return as a fifth-year player?
Carmody said earlier this week that forward Ivan Tolic would not be able to play next year and his career was over. Northwestern could then take a medical waiver on Tolic and use his scholarship on another player. Would they give that scholarship to Jenkins for one season? He deserves it.
NU continues to have a chance at the NIT and needs a win over Michigan State at home Wednesday or at Indiana on Saturday to stay above .500 heading into the Big Ten tournament.