After dropping an overtime game to Oregon, the Wisconsin basketball team was determined to bounce-back against the weak Washington Huskies.
The Wisconsin Badgers held a dominant lead over the Oregon Ducks on Saturday before allowing an overtime period to take place. Wisconsin eventually let go of the game after committing too many turnovers and “settling” for shots, according to Coach Greg Gard. Against the Washington Huskies, however, Wisconsin was determined to “get right” in more ways than just by adding to the win column.
Wisconsin Basketball Showcases Clear Skill Difference During Big Win Over Washington
Coming into the clash against the Huskies, the Wisconsin basketball team was expected to be more aggressive when shooting the basketball. Coach Gard was upset following the loss to Oregon with the offensive play of Wisconsin, questioning the shots the team took and whether or not they were truly the shots the team wanted to take.
One key sign of this was the lack of free-throw attempts with just six all game, which is something that the Badgers typically place an emphasis on. Against the Washington Huskies, Wisconsin shot 16 free-throws along with shooting 51.6% from the field. The Wisconsin Badgers basketball team took the shots they wanted to take against Washington, and the difference in production was very clear.
The game was ultimately highlighted by the pickup play of John Blackwell and Kamari McGee, who both provided sparks for the team. The duo combined for 32-points, with Blackwell contributing a team-high 24-points on the night.
Another clear aspect of the win was the fact that the Wisconsin basketball team can stand toe-to-toe with an array of teams. Washington is a talented team, but one that does not fully click yet and that has been obvious in the ball movement of the team. In a clean contest where the opponent does not attack the rim and draw fouls, like the Huskies did, Wisconsin is a difficult team to stop.
Wisconsin Badgers Basketball Aiming to Carry Momentum Into Massive Michigan State Game
With the much-needed win behind them, the Wisconsin basketball team will now have to shift focus towards the Michigan State Spartans, who lead the Big Ten Conference at the moment.
The Spartans have been a tough opponent for Big Ten Conference teams this season, holding a conference record of 13-3 thus far. The Wisconsin Badgers play the Spartans just once this season, but games against shared opponents have been interesting to compare. Both teams had nearly identical wins over Washington and losses to UCLA, however the Spartans had more success against teams like Illinois and Michigan compared to the Badgers this season.
Michigan State themselves have a game to worry about before the clash, with a tough contest against the Maryland Terrapins going down away from home. The Spartans have one of the toughest six-game stretches to finish the season in the entire NCAA, having to play Michigan (twice), Wisconsin, Purdue, Maryland, and Iowa.
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