Morning Box Score

By Matt Motyka in News on Mar 26, 2009 3:00PM

AP Photo/Paul Beaty

'Hawks Hold Off Sharks
Consider the slump busted, as the Chicago Blackhawks defeated the San Jose Sharks 6-5 in a shootout on Wednesday for their second consecutive victory. The 'Hawks didn't take an ideal path to victory—Chicago relinquished leads of 4-1 and 5-3—but nonetheless earned an important two points in the standings. Andrew Ladd scored twice for the Blackhawks,including their fifth and final goal in regulation. Ladd's insurance goal paid off when the Sharks stormed back with two scores late in the third period to force the game into overtime. After an indecisive OT, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews made quick work of the shootout, scoring on Chicago's first two attempts while San Jose fired blanks. The 'Hawks, who now sit a point behind third-place Calgary and two points ahead of Vancouver in the standings, will host the New Jersey Devils on Friday.

College Basketball
Notre Dame advanced to the NIT semifinals with a 77-67 win over the Kentucky Wildcats Wednesday evening. The Irish never trailed, but things got interesting when Kentucky closed the gap to two possessions with 2:44 remaining. Notre Dame wasn't fazed, however, sinking all eight free-throws down the stretch to secure the win. Luke Harangody was the front man for the Irish, scoring 30 points and snagging 11 rebounds. Notre Dame will face Penn State on Wednesday for a chance to play in the championship game.

Bradley beat the Pacific Tigers, 59-49, to earn a spot in the CIT finals. Bradley's lead didn't reach double digits until the game's final seconds, but the Braves were able to maintain a slight advantage throughout the second half. Dodie Dunson was the top scorer for Bradley with a baker's dozen, and Theron Wilson followed up with 12 points. The Braves will host either James Madison or Old Dominion for CIT title bout on Tuesday evening.