Overall: D
It is hard to overcome and find a way to win in the Big Ten after shooting 29 percent (9-for-31) from the field in the first half. It is even more difficult to do when you’re playing Michigan State and haven’t won in East Lansing since 2004.
Although the Badgers started the second half shooting 5-for-6 from the field and were able to cut Michigan State’s lead to six. But after a timeout called by Michigan State, the Spartans found a way to regain control of the game.
As out of the timeout Michigan State went on a 24-6 run. Over that stretch, Wisconsin went 2-for-11 from the field compared to the Spartans shooting 9-for-12 from the field including making eight straight field goals at one point.
Simply put that is not a recipe for success against Michigan State.
As the Spartans were able to create the shots they wanted at times and even if Wisconsin was able to contest the shot the Spartans still found a way to knock them down.
Wisconsin didn’t hurt themselves by turning the basketball over as they only committed nine turnovers as the Spartans turned Wisconsin’s turnovers into eight points.
Micah Potter led the team in turnovers with three as he led Wisconsin’s bench in scoring for the fourth straight game. But after averaging 17 points over the last three games for Wisconsin he only scored four points both coming off of open dunks.
Game MVP: Nate Reuvers
Reuvers only scored five points in the first half but registered 14 points in the second half. As he was responsible for Wisconsin’s first eight points in the second half. Reuvers was Wisconsin’s most consistent offensive player over the course of the game as his seven made field goal attempts led the team. He also led the team in rebounds with seven, led the team with two blocks, and was one of five players to register a steal.