Ohio State Upsets No. 24 Wisconsin Behind Thornton's Big Second Half

Buckeyes get crucial win over ranked Badgers to boost NCAA Tournament hopes

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Bruce Thornton scored 24 of his 27 points in the second half to lead Ohio State to an 86-69 upset victory over No. 24 Wisconsin on Tuesday. Devin Royal added a season-high 25 points for the Buckeyes, who led by 12 at halftime and never looked back. The win is a much-needed signature victory for Ohio State, which had been 0-6 against ranked opponents and 0-8 against Quad 1 teams this season.

Why it matters

This win is a major boost to Ohio State's NCAA Tournament hopes, as they were firmly on the bubble heading into this game. The Buckeyes have been inconsistent this season, but this victory over a ranked Wisconsin team could be a turning point. For the Badgers, the loss is a setback in their quest for a high seed in the Big Dance.

The details

Thornton took over in the second half, scoring 24 of his 27 points to lead the Buckeyes to the victory. Devin Royal also had a big game, posting a season-high 25 points. Ohio State led by 12 at halftime and was never seriously threatened in the second half. The Buckeyes were able to take advantage of the absence of Wisconsin's fourth-leading scorer Austin Rapp, who missed the game due to illness.

  • Ohio State led by 12 at halftime, 38-26.

The players

Bruce Thornton

A junior guard for Ohio State who scored 27 points, including 24 in the second half, to lead the Buckeyes to the upset win.

Devin Royal

A sophomore forward for Ohio State who scored a season-high 25 points in the victory.

Braeden Carrington

A junior guard for Wisconsin who scored a team-high 20 points, including five 3-pointers in the second half, in the losing effort.

Austin Rapp

Wisconsin's fourth-leading scorer who missed the game due to illness.

John Mobley Jr.

Ohio State's second-leading scorer who missed his second straight game with a hand injury.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This win is a crucial step for Ohio State as they look to solidify their spot in the NCAA Tournament field. The Buckeyes have been inconsistent this season, but this victory over a ranked opponent could provide the momentum they need to make a late-season push. For Wisconsin, the loss is a setback, but they will look to bounce back and secure a high seed in the Big Dance.