On Wednesday night the Wisconsin Badgers (4-2 Big Ten, 14-4 overall) decided to show the Northwestern Wildcats (0-5 Big Ten, 8-8 overall) and the Big Ten a different look. The Badgers came out on fire in the opening minutes after having sluggish starts over the last few games. The Badgers knocked down their first five shots including three from downtown. From the start of the game it was obvious the Badgers were much stronger and more athletic than the Wildcats. The Badgers used their strength and quickness to snatch 21 offensive rebounds and had a 2-1 ratio in rebounds over Northwestern.
Head Coach Bo Ryan continued his success at home and remains undefeated in the Big Ten, while Northwestern failed to notch their first win in conference play. Northwestern Head Coach Bill Carmody only had good things to say about the Badgers and their players.
\That's a good Wisconsin team. They guarded us very well. I just thought they outplayed us on both ends of the court."" Carmody said.
When asked about the Badgers' quick start Carmody replied, ""I didn't think they were going to miss in the first half."" Carmody replied.
Throughout the first half, Northwestern clung to junior guard Jitim Young. Young used a variety of moves en route to a 14 point half on six of eight shooting. Young's performance was impressive, but it was sophomore guard Devin Harris who brought the crowd to their feet. With the Badgers leading 18-11, Harris, the Big Ten's leader in steals, jumped in the passing lane and raced down the court for a two handed jam. Before the crowd could settle, Harris picked off another pass and finished with a tough layup over two defenders. Two plays later, freshmen forward Alando Tucker had the play of the night with a ridiculous one handed jam, however, the refs called a hand check and waived off the basket. The Badgers closed off the half with a 35-25 lead. In the second half, Young was primarily held in check and so was Northwestern's chances of a comeback. The crowd didn't have much to cheer about and were left with heckling the refs. In the second half Northwestern never trimmed the lead to single digits and by the end of the game they trailed by 19.
Senior forward Kirk Penney led the Badgers with a solid double double. Penney had 18 points and 12 rebounds. Tucker played a game high 38 minutes and finished with 14 points and eight rebounds. However, maybe the most impressive player of the night was freshmen guard Boo Wade. Wade played a career high 30 minutes and was turnover free. Wade also contributed with six points, four assists and three rebounds. Wade appears to be a crowd favorite hearing the chants of ""BOOOOO"" from the crowd after every play. Wade's stats may not be in the headlines, but if you ask coach Ryan, Wade's play is more than deserving.
""I don't think we're where we are without what he contributes. Defensively, offensively, fundamentals ... Have you ever heard Boo say anything? Let me know if you do. He just gets it done. He does some really nice things and he's getting better. He's another one of those guys that comes in that doesn't think he has all the answers. And boy, do we like coaching those guys."" Ryan said.
The Badgers next play Saturday against Penn State at the Kohl Center. Tip off is at 3:37.
