Nick Martinelli figured prominently into Northwestern's outlook before the season. With running mate Brooks Barnhizer still working through a foot injury, however, Martinelli is embracing the opportunity to showcase his impact early.

Jalen Leach scored seven of his season-best 27 points in overtime and Northwestern escaped an upset bid by posting a 67-58 victory over Eastern Illinois on Friday night in nonconference play at Evanston,

Northwestern finished 22-12 overall with a 15-2 record at home during the 2023-24 season. The Wildcats averaged 73.3 points per game while shooting 45.5% from the field and 39.0%