No. 12 Wisconsin Aims to Sweep Minnesota in Border Battle

MINNEAPOLIS – The No. 12 Wisconsin Badgers are set to face the Minnesota Gophers on the road Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. after a tough 71-62 loss to Michigan State. With this game, Wisconsin looks to complete the season sweep in the Border Battle.

Despite their recent loss, the Badgers (22-7, 12-6 Big Ten) remain hopeful, having previously defeated the Gophers by 21 points in their first matchup of the season. In that game, they secured an 80-59 victory, showcasing a strong defensive effort and effective shooting from beyond the arc. Wisconsin coach Greg Gard emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, stating, “Quite frankly, it’s your next game and you’re competitive and you want to win.

The Gophers (15-14, 7-11) are currently the lowest-scoring team in the Big Ten, averaging just 68.3 points per game. Minnesota’s star forward, Dawson Garcia, leads the team with 19.3 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, shooting 48 percent from the field.

However, Wisconsin will be without senior guard Max Klesmit, who has been sidelined due to tightness in his lower leg. Klesmit, who played only five minutes in the last win against Washington, has been a key player for the Badgers. In his absence, Kamari McGee is expected to step into the starting lineup for the second consecutive game.

Las Vegas has the Badgers as a 6.5-point favorite for the matchup. Wisconsin will look to leverage their defensive prowess after limiting Michigan State to just 39.4% shooting, which marked the fifth time this season they have held an opponent below 40% shooting.

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. Central Time, and the game will be broadcasted on the Big Ten Network. Local radio coverage will be available on 97.3-FM in Milwaukee and on 1310-AM and 101.5-FM in Madison.

For the Badgers, each game this week is crucial as they prepare for March Madness, where victories can elevate their standing and improve their chances for a favorable seed. The upcoming clash with Minnesota presents an opportunity for redemption and momentum as they enter the final stretch of the regular season.

Expect another competitive matchup in this heated rivalry. The last time these two teams met, Wisconsin overcame a one-point halftime deficit to explode in the second half, ultimately winning by nine points. Anticipation builds as fans await how the Badgers will respond in Minneapolis.