Indiana Edges Wisconsin in Overtime Thriller

Lamar Wilkerson's late free throws lift Hoosiers to 78-77 win over Badgers

Feb. 7, 2026 at 3:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a game that featured numerous lead changes and dramatic swings, the Indiana Hoosiers outlasted the Wisconsin Badgers 78-77 in overtime at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Lamar Wilkerson's two free throws with 2.8 seconds left in the extra period gave Indiana the victory after Wisconsin had taken a late four-point lead in regulation. Wilkerson led the Hoosiers with 25 points, while Wisconsin's Nolan Winter scored a game-high 26 points.

Why it matters

This Big Ten conference matchup between two of the league's top teams had major implications for the standings and NCAA Tournament hopes. Indiana's come-from-behind win on its home court demonstrated the team's resilience and ability to win close games, a valuable trait heading into the postseason.

The details

Indiana jumped out to an early 14-point lead, but Wisconsin battled back to take a late 72-68 advantage with under a minute left in regulation. The Hoosiers then scored four straight points to force overtime, where Wilkerson's clutch free throws sealed the victory. Indiana forward Sam Alexis also had a strong game, posting 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 blocks.

  • The game was played on February 7, 2026 at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington, Indiana.
  • Indiana trailed by four points with 1:08 remaining in regulation before tying the game and forcing overtime.
  • Lamar Wilkerson made the game-winning free throws with 2.8 seconds left in overtime.

The players

Lamar Wilkerson

A senior guard for the Indiana Hoosiers who scored a team-high 25 points, including the decisive free throws in overtime.

Nolan Winter

A junior forward for the Wisconsin Badgers who scored a game-high 26 points in the losing effort.

Sam Alexis

A sophomore forward for the Indiana Hoosiers who contributed 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 blocks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must have poise and composure in those late-game situations. I'm proud of how our guys fought back and found a way to win this one.”

— Mike Woodson, Head Coach, Indiana Hoosiers (247sports.com)

“It's a tough loss, but we had our chances. We'll learn from this experience and come back stronger.”

— Greg Gard, Head Coach, Wisconsin Badgers (247sports.com)

What’s next

Indiana will look to build on this momentum as they continue their Big Ten schedule, while Wisconsin will aim to rebound in their next conference matchup.

The takeaway

This back-and-forth thriller showcased the competitiveness of the Big Ten conference, with two talented teams battling until the final seconds. Indiana's ability to overcome a late deficit and win in overtime demonstrated the Hoosiers' resilience and poise under pressure, a valuable trait as they pursue their postseason goals.