Northwestern's center Matthew Nicholson had a whirlwind season, showing both improvements and setbacks in his performance compared to the previous year. His shooting and transition game improved, with a rise in field goal and free-throw percentages, along with better averages in blocks, assists, and turnovers. However, there was a significant decrease in his rebounding average, which fell below expectations for a player of his size and stature.

By the Numbers
  • Nicholson's field goal percentage rose from 61.4% to 65.7%, despite playing five fewer games due to injury.
  • His rebounding average dropped from 5.4 to 4.3, a fairly significant decrease.
State of Play
  • Nicholson's improvements in shooting and transition game, but significant decrease in rebounding average
  • Nicholson and teammate Ty Berry will exercise their fifth year of eligibility and return to Northwestern for the next season
Bottom Line

Nicholson's return for the next season provides a sense of stability for Northwestern in a time of massive change, and his performance is hoped to strengthen the team and bridge to the future, as he prepares for his final year in Evanston.