Wisconsin’s season came to an abrupt end with an 83-82 loss to the High Point Panthers in the first round of the NCAA tournament early Thursday afternoon. A combination of turnovers and inconsistent pacing allowed the 12-seed Panthers to pull off the upset.
The Badgers managed to score 82 points, nearly matching their season average of 83 per game. Although they kept the score high, Wisconsin couldn’t find consistent rhythm on the offensive end, enduring scoring droughts that allowed High Point to stay within reach. Wisconsin started the game with a 15-5 lead, but shots were not connecting, and High Point found enough of a rhythm the rest of the way to stay in the game.
One of High Point’s main objectives was to force fast breaks, upping the pace of play. The Panthers dominated the Badgers in transition, securing 16 fast-break points compared to Wisconsin’s five.
The most crucial fast-break opportunity came at the 14 second mark when Panther Rob Martin came down with the rebound from a missed layup from Nick Boyd and found Chase Johnston streaking down the court, who secured the crucial layup. It was Johnston’s first non 3-point field goal of the season and gave the Panthers a one point lead.
Turnovers were another major factor in the loss. Wisconsin committed 10 turnovers compared to High Point’s six, fueling the Panther’s fast-break opportunities and ultimately costing the Badgers the game.
The Panther’s defense was on high alert all game.. Braedon Carrington fell victim to their defensive intensity [what time?], when the Panthers trapped him in the corner, forcing a pass into the post that ultimately got snatched away by High Point.
The Badgers also got out-rebounded despite owning the size advantage. Nolan Winter’s impact was apparent in his return to action, but he was limited to just 21 minutes of play, allowing High Point to take an advantage despite having no main rotation player over 6 feet 8 inches. Wisconsin failed to box out efficiently and could not contain rebounds. The Panthers outhustled Wisconsin on the glass, snagging 13 offensive rebounds compared to Wisconsin’s six.
High Point’s offense was able to break down Wisconsin’s defense through quick first steps and efficient passing. The Badgers could not keep up with the fast pace that High Point was known for all season, and it ultimately kept Wisconsin out of their comfort zone.
Although the Badgers led for 84% of the game, Wisconsin’s turnover struggles and transition defense, along with High Point’s incredible shot-making, allowed the Panthers to stun Wisconsin with the upset.
