The Wisconsin Badgers have continued an impressive undefeated streak against the winless Chicago State Cougars in Madison.
The Badgers played in the first game since returning from the Greenbrier Tip-Off, which had plenty of exciting moments in nearly every game. Even with technical difficulties down the stretch, Wisconsin showed true heart and overcame a massive deficit to win the title. Now, the Wisconsin Badgers must return to Madison ahead of conference play against the Michigan Wolverines.
The Wisconsin Badgers did not win the game without a bit of a scare, however, as the Cougars kept a tight seven-point game at the half. In the first-half of play, the Cougars shot just 8.3% from three-point range but nailed all six shots from the foul-line. Chicago State frustrated the Badgers and forced five first-half turnovers which allowed the team to keep a close game despite not shooting the greatest from the field.
It was another solid win for the Badgers, but once again posed the question of just how tough this Wisconsin team will be. The Badgers have showcased heart and determination in multiple comeback wins this season, but that is not a sustainable practice for every single game. Chicago State was arguably a team that could have lost by 40-points to Wisconsin, but rather the Cougars were able to keep a relatively close game throughout the first-half before the flood gates opened.
The second-half of play was all Wisconsin as the Badgers opened up the bench and allowed plenty of players to receive quality minutes.
What Went Right For the Wisconsin Badgers, Coach Greg Gard Against Chicago State Cougars
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The Wisconsin Badgers may have played the worst team they will play all season, but the team really put certain aspects together that previously were concerns.
Starting with ball movement, the Wisconsin offense moved the ball incredibly fluently against the Cougars with four assists on the first five buckets. Wisconsin is still adjusting to the new offense and many players are working to develop chemistry, but the team is already miles ahead of many other programs who were in a similar situation during the offseason.
Both Tonje and Crowl looked fantastic for the team and in particular looked excellent in the new offense coach Greg Gard has created. Crowl is distributing the basketball like a mad-man and it has been excellent for the overall health of the offense. Crowl may have had issues previously this season with getting his shots to fall, but when he is on, the benefit he provides the Badgers offense is immense.
Tonje, on the other hand, has been the all-around scorer for the offense and not even the Cougars could find a way to stop the guard. Tonje once again made his way consistently to the foul line which has been his biggest tool used thus far outside of his three-point shot. The guard currently leads the NCAA in attempted free-throws and will likely continue to work his foul drawing magic the rest of the year.
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