Northwestern vs. Oregon Preview: How to Watch, Injury Report and Odds

Northwestern (12-16, 4-13 Big Ten) welcomes Oregon (11-17, 4-13 Big Ten) to Welsh-Ryan Arena on Saturday for the program's final home game of the season, looking to extend its two-game winning streak and capture a fifth conference victory with two more outings left on the schedule.

The Wildcats are riding momentum after back-to-back wins over Maryland and Indiana, showing the late-season form that eluded them during two brutal five-game losing streaks earlier in Big Ten play. Nick Martinelli has been the catalyst, leading the Big Ten and ranking sixth nationally at 22.3 points per game. His 28-point performance in the comeback victory at Indiana on Tuesday showcased his ability to take over in crucial moments.

But Northwestern's recent success extends beyond Martinelli's stardom. Freshman Jake West has emerged as a legitimate second scoring threat, averaging 6.4 points and 4.5 assists while shooting 36.8% from three-point range. His second season-high 16 points at Indiana, including three triples, provided the consistent support head coach Chris Collins has sought all season. The team also appreciated Arrinten Page's resurgence off the bench, scoring 10 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing four assists while contributing crucial plays during the rally against the Hoosiers, adding another dimension to Northwestern's attack.

Oregon will visit Evanston for the first time in the program's history. Similar to the Wildcats, the Ducks have experienced a formidable challenge amid their own inconsistent season. However, their recent two victories against USC and Wisconsin have built momentum for them before facing Northwestern

Though Northwestern has lost all three previous meetings with Oregon, Saturday offers a prime opportunity to flip that script, as KenPom predicts the Wildcats have a 71% probability of winning as the visitors.

Oregon's offense revolves around 7-foot senior center Nate Bittle, who averages 16.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.0 blocks while shooting a respectable 33.7% from three-point range. Kwame Evans provides additional frontcourt firepower with 13.0 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, ranking 12th in the Big Ten in rebounding.

For Northwestern, containing Bittle's versatility and controlling the glass will be critical. The Wildcats have found their defensive identity in recent games, and another strong performance on Senior Day could push them toward a fifth Big Ten victory and secure a better spot for the conference tournament’s seeding.

Oregon Ducks (11-17) vs. Northwestern Wildcats (12-16)
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena | Evanston, IL
Tipoff: Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. CT (2:00 p.m. ET)
TV: Big Ten Network (BTN) | Announcers: Dave Revsine, Jordan Taylor
Radio: WGN Radio 720 AM | Announcers: Dave Eanet, Billy McKinney

Betting Line: Northwestern -3.5
Moneyline: Northwestern -192, Oregon +158
Over/Under: 142.5

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Northwestern Wildcats

Oregon Ducks