Column: Nick Martinelli and Northwestern upset Indiana to heat up a lukewarm Big Ten Tournament
By Paul Sullivan
Published on March 12, 2026.
The Big Ten Tournament has been a mixed experience, with a six-day basketball extravaganza in Chicago instead of a long weekend due to the lack of interest in watching the games. The Big Ten decided to expand its men’s tournament in 2026 to allow all 18 teams to participate, making it a six day event. Despite a lack of local interest, Northwestern beat Indiana 74-61 in the second-round, extending their season with a game against the worst team in the conference. Nick Martinelli led the Wildcats with 28 points and three steals, while freshman guard Jake West added 18 points. The conference might be sending nine teams to the NCAA Tournament, but only half-dozen have a realistic shot at winning this tournament.
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