This matchup is particularly intriguing given the teams' recent history. On November 29, Pitt and Ohio State clashed in Columbus, with the Panthers emerging victorious in a thrilling overtime game. Pitt overcame a 12-point deficit in the second half, going on a 20-2 run to take the lead. Despite Ohio State's late surge, Pitt held on to force overtime and ultimately won 91-88.
Key performers in that game included Pitt's Jaland Lowe, who scored a career-high 28 points, and Ish Leggett, who recorded a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Redshirt freshman Papa Amadou Kante also made a significant impact off the bench with 12 points.
Pitt currently stands at 10-2 overall, having completed their non-conference play with a 9-2 record. Their losses came against then-ranked No. 19 Wisconsin and Mississippi State. Ohio State, meanwhile, is 8-4, with losses to then-ranked No. 23 Texas A&M, No. 2 Auburn, and Maryland.
The winner of this matchup will face the victor of the game between No. 3 Kansas and No. 14 South Dakota State in the Second Round.
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