Minnesota Basketball: Wisconsin Rolls in Second Half to Put Away Gophers 49-66

THE FACTS

The second half in Madison was all Wisconsin. The Gophers led by 2 at the break but were dominated by the Badgers and lost 49-66. Bronson Koenig was electric in the second half and lead Wisconsin in scoring with 17, including 5/8 from behind the arc. After an 8-game winning streak, the Gophers ended the season with an ugly loss but head into the Big Ten Tournament as the 4-seed.

TURNING POINT

Halftime was the turning point. Minnesota led by 2 and was playing composed and confident basketball. But it was a complete switch in the second half with Wisconsin gaining momentum and having fun on their way to a blow-out win.

THE STAT

The Badgers in the second half shot 80% from three. That is what really opened up their offense.

NOT

Akeem Spring was broken tonight. Reggie Lynch provided no offense as well but he did contribute 5 blocks and 8 boards. But the Gopher’s starting SG was 0/6 from the floor and never was able to contribute. He may be hampered with a back issue, but the Gophers need him stretching the floor.

GOOD MOVE

Playing Dupree McBrayer plenty of minutes in the second half...he gave the Gophers a spark and helped us close the gap to 6 with 6:20 remaining before Wisconsin went on another run and put the game away, finishing on a 15-4 run.

NOTABLE

The flop was prevalent today and both were incredibly weak calls. Wisconsin is good at the flop but one should expect the refs to be prepared and no fooled by them. This of course had NOTHING to do with the outcome of today’s game...just frustrating and annoying.

UP NEXT

The Gophers are locked into the 4-seed and will play the winner of Michigan State and whomever they play. Their game will be on Friday at approximately 2:30.