Like other Midwestern states, Wisconsin is all about sports. The state may lack an official NHL franchise, but locals who follow the Badgers aren’t necessarily feeling left out. After all, the state overwhelmingly bends toward football—and Cheeseheads still have Aaron Rodgers at the helm.
In fact, for the past two decades, sports fans in Wisconsin have enjoyed major highs in each of the sporting franchises here—even the Brewers. While the MLB team hasn’t taken home a World Series title, they’ve qualified for the playoffs six times since 2008. With the Greek Freak leading the NBA across town, locals have had plenty of sporting action to apply free bets to from companies like OddsChecker, which collects offers from top sportsbooks.
Few states can say the same about being able to back their collective pro sports franchises with a wager. This begs the question—has Wisconsin been enjoying a golden era in sports since the early 2000s?
Is This Wisconsin’s Golden Era in Sports?
Glimmer Fading for the Packers
There’s no doubt that Aaron Rodgers’ leadership has given NFL fans some incredible highs during his tenure (even if some would prefer to have Brett Favre back). Throw in other talents like Corey Linsley, Mark Tauscher, and Chad Clifton, and there’s even more to celebrate.
Still, it bears pointing out that Rodgers may be competing in his last season with the Packers. Not only has the team’s offense looked shakey, but Rodgers recently upset fans to the point that many found themselves in agreement with Greg Jennings. Can Rodgers manage a turnaround halfway through the season?
Reign of the Greek Freak
The shine may be fading from the Packers’ resident QB, but Giannis Antetokounmpo is barely breaking a sweat in Milwaukee. In fact, in a recent 125-105 win against the Houston Rockets, Antetokounmpo set new franchise records. He notched a 41-point first half… without two of his wingmen, Pat Connaughton and Khris Middleton, to help him out.
He then went on to break the Bucks’ franchise record for career free throws. He scored his 3,506th free throw in the game, even though it’s one of his weakest offensive traits. But Antetokounmpo’s dominance isn’t the team’s only secret weapon. While the two-time MVP certainly isn’t lengthening the team’s odds, there’s a huge emphasis on teamwork.
Along with Middleton and Connaughton, fans are also keeping an eye on new rookies Marjon Beauchamp and AJ Green. Beauchamp notched his first bucket in the Rockets contest. Others are watching Brook Lopez and Jrue Holiday—and hoping they aren’t traded despite early doubts.