EUGENE, Ore. — Max Klesmit scored 18 points, Chucky Hepburn made a 3-pointer with 55.4 seconds remaining and Wisconsin defeated Oregon 61-58 on Tuesday night in the NIT.

Wisconsin (20-14) advanced to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) semifinals in Las Vegas against North Texas on March 28.

Klesmit was 5 of 11 shooting, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and went 6 for 7 from the line for the Badgers. Hepburn scored 12 points. Steven Crowl had nine points and 10 rebounds.

Trailing 54-48 with 3:28 left, Wisconsin closed on a 13-4 run to rally back and win.

"I think it just shows the perseverance this group has and the ability to stick together when times may not go your way during the game, and be one whole group," Klesmit said. "And that pays dividends at the end."

Tyler Wahl was negated offensively by the height and length of Oregon's frontcourt, but finished with a team-high six assists, as well seven rebounds.
 

More 'ball together! 🙌#OnWisconsin #NIT2023 pic.twitter.com/3pGdGpAgwY

— Wisconsin Basketball (@BadgerMBB) March 22, 2023

The Ducks (21-15) were led by Keeshawn Barthelemy, who posted 15 points and six rebounds. Quincy Guerrier added 14 points, eight rebounds and three blocks for Oregon.