The Badgers advance to the Maui Jim Maui Invitational after defeating No. 12 Houston 65-63. Sophomore guard Johnny Davis led all scores with 30 points while shooting 10-18 from the field.
Wisconsin was able to find their way early in the game, as the Badgers started the contest on a 13-0 run within the first few minutes. Davis started the game scoring 11 of Wisconsin’s first 16 points.
Houston started to pick it up themselves but continued to struggle defensively throughout the first half. Wisconsin was able to shoot 57.1% during the first half of play along with making seven three point shots. The Badgers struggled to get to the free throw line in the first half, as they only attempted three.
The Badgers were able to defend terrifically, holding the Cougars to 25.9 percent shooting in the first half and only making two of their ten three point shots. Wisconsin led Houston 40-20 at the end of the first half. Davis led the way with 18 and sophomore Steven Crowl had himself eight points.
Wisconsin and Houston Second Half
Houston came out of the second half playing a little bit more efficiently as they were able to begin the half on a 10-0 run, cutting the game to ten with 15 minutes remaining. A dunk by Houston’s Tramon Mark at the seven minute mark cut the 20 point lead to just five now.
Davis continued to show his skill-set by continuing Wisconsin’s rhythm as he was able to add another 12 points by himself in the second half.
Head Coach Greg Gard did an excellent job game planning as he was able to game plan around Houston’s very talented Marcus Sasser who is averaging 20 points per game on the year. He was held to just three at the half and ended with eleven.
As time started to crunch to the end, senior Brad Davidson was able to keep his composure, knocking down all four of his free throws which helped seal the win for the Badgers. Wisconsin was able to become more aggressive in the second half taking 12 more free throw attempts, while making 11 of them.
Wisconsin will face off against the winner of Oregon and Saint Mary’s for the Maui Jim Maui Invitational Championship. That game is scheduled for Nov. 24 at 5p.m ET at the Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.
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