With the new Big Ten basketball schedule, to begin the month of December, we will see two Big Ten opponents. Wisconsin had to start their Big Ten play with a very tough opponent in Maryland. Coming in ranked number 13 in the country and just knocked off Illinois. Wisconsin was able to pull out the great win 64-59, here are three things from the win.
Front Court Play
Coming into the season, we knew how good Tyler Wahl would be for the Badgers. However, outside of that, we didn’t know the kind of depth Wisconsin would have at this position. Steven Crowl and Carter Gilmore have started the season out great and continued that tonight.
Crowl has really shown off his ability as a passer when teams decide to double him in the post. When teams don’t double in the post, he’s very decisive and strong with his post moves. Combined with great touch around the rim and from behind the arch, Crowl is looking to have a career-best season.
Carter Gilmore has been forced into the role of playing a small ball center when Crowl is out. Gilmore has been super consistent on the defensive end and on the glass rebounding. Tonight, he even added 7 points. Which included a nice three after previously air balling one from the corner.
Free Throws
Wisconsin cannot afford to leave points on the board this year. An offense that can be inconsistent and stagnant at times, when you get to the line you must convert. Teams that advance in March are always good from the line. The Badgers went just 17-27 from the line tonight, which left the door open for Maryland at times.
Clutch Time
It’s really fun to see some guys step up in the clutch so far this year. Last year, it was pretty much getting Johnny Davis the ball and getting out of the way. Now, there is a multitude of guys who have stepped up in important moments. Max Klesmit and Chucky Hepburn last game against Marquette. Tyler Wahl in the Bahamas, and Connor Essegian at crucial moments.
For a team who seems to always be in close games down the stretch, it’s gonna be important for different guys to step up in the clutch and knock down shots. The Badger’s last six games have been decided by five points or less, with Wisconsin being 4-2 in those games.
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