Wisconsin Badgers Stay Undefeated with 74-53 Victory Over Chicago State, Set for Michigan Showdown

Wisconsin Badgers Basketball Overview

MADISON, Wis. — John Tonje, a graduate transfer guard, led No. 15 Wisconsin with 22 points in a 74-53 win over Chicago State at the Kohl Center. The Badgers improved to 8-0, their best start since the 2013-14 season.

Key Player Performances:

• John Tonje: 22 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists. This is his fourth game scoring over 20 points this season.
• Steven Crowl: 9 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 blocks.
• Nolan Winter: 12 points (perfect 4-for-4 shooting), 6 rebounds. He has scored in double figures in three consecutive games.

Game Highlights:

• Wisconsin held Chicago State to 33.9% shooting and limited them to 6-of-24 from 3-point range.
• The Badgers made 10 three-pointers and went 18-for-21 from the free throw line, leading the nation with an 86.4% shooting percentage from the line.

Notable Statistics:

• Wisconsin’s 8-0 start is only the fourth in NCAA tournament history since 1938-39.
• They have averaged just 9.3 turnovers per game, achieving 10 or fewer turnovers in five of eight games.

Quotes:
Head coach Greg Gard noted the improvement in shooting during the second half and praised the team’s ball sharing. Nolan Winter emphasized the importance of defensive leadership, while Steven Crowl expressed excitement about the upcoming Big Ten games.

Next Game:
Wisconsin will face Michigan on December 3, 2024, at 8 PM at the Kohl Center, marking their entry into Big Ten Conference play.