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Are you ready for an exhilarating night of college basketball? The Wisconsin Badgers are set to face off against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup. Both teams have shown incredible talent and resilience this season, and this game promises to be a thrilling encounter. Here’s everything you need to know before tip-off!
Game Details:
- Date: Monday, January 6, 2025
- Time: 6 p.m. (ET)
- Location: Jersey Mike’s Arena, Piscataway, NJ
- Watch: FS1
- Radio: Badgers Radio Network
Current Records:
- Wisconsin: 11-3, 0-2 Big Ten
- Rutgers: 8-6, 1-2 Big Ten
Series History:
Wisconsin leads the overall series 11-6 against Rutgers, but the Scarlet Knights have been formidable at home, holding a 4-3 record against the Badgers in Piscataway. This game will be a crucial one for both teams as they aim to secure a more formidable standing in the Big Ten Conference.
What to Expect from Wisconsin:
The Badgers are coming off an impressive performance where they scored 116 points against Iowa, showcasing their offensive firepower. Their ability to shoot from beyond the arc has been remarkable, as seen in their record-setting 21 three-pointers against the Hawkeyes. Wisconsin is 8-0 when scoring more than 65 points against Rutgers, making offense a key factor in their success.
Projected Starting Five for Wisconsin:
- John Tonje (G), 6-4, 215 lbs, 18.6 PPG
- Max Klesmit (G), 6-4, 200 lbs, 11.0 PPG
- Steven Crowl (F), 7-0, 245 lbs, 9.1 PPG
- John Blackwell (G), 6-4, 203 lbs, 15.4 PPG
- Nolan Winter (F), 7-0, 220 lbs, 11.6 PPG
Player to Watch: John Blackwell is on fire, coming off a career-high performance against Iowa. His ability to score and facilitate plays will be vital for Wisconsin’s success against Rutgers’ defense.
Understanding Rutgers:
Rutgers has had a solid season so far, particularly at home, where they have a strong record of 75-19 since the 2019-20 season. Their high-scoring offense is bolstered by standout freshmen Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, who are among the top scorers in the nation. However, the Scarlet Knights need to improve their ball movement and consistent scoring across the roster to support their stars.
Projected Starting Five for Rutgers:
- JaMichael Davis (G), 6-2, 175 lbs, 3.6 PPG
- Dylan Harper (G), 6-6, 215 lbs, 22.8 PPG
- Ace Bailey (F), 6-6, 210 lbs, 19.9 PPG
- Emmanuel Ogbole (C), 6-10, 270 lbs, 4.0 PPG
- Jeremiah Williams (G), 6-4, 200 lbs, 7.8 PPG
Player to Watch: Keep an eye on Dylan Harper, who has already made a significant impact in his freshman year, bringing both scoring and playmaking to Rutgers' offense.
Game Predictions:
With the way both teams are playing, this matchup will likely come down to which squad can impose their style of play. Wisconsin will rely on its efficient shooting and scoring depth, while Rutgers will look to leverage its home-court advantage and the dynamic duo of Harper and Bailey. If the Badgers can play solid defense and not rely solely on their recent scoring outburst, they have a good chance to win by at least 10 points.
As we gear up for what promises to be a thrilling encounter, make sure to tune in and support the Badgers as they seek to turn their season around against a competitive Rutgers team!
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