The Wisconsin Badgers basketball team has bolstered its NCAA Tournament resume with a decisive 84-69 victory over the University of Southern California (USC) on Saturday. This win, against a team ranked 75th in the NCAA NET Rankings, marks another significant addition to their growing list of accomplishments this season.
The Badgers have now secured an impressive 15-3 overall record and stand at 5-2 in Big Ten competition. Their performance has propelled them to the 21st position in the NET rankings, positioning them as potential contenders for a top-four seed in early NCAA Tournament projections. Since recovering from a three-game losing streak in December, Wisconsin has demonstrated remarkable consistency, particularly in higher-tier matchups. They have maintained an unblemished record in Quad 2 and Quad 4 games, while also improving their standing in Quad 1 and Quad 3 contests.
As the Badgers look ahead to their upcoming schedule, they face a series of challenging opponents that could either solidify or jeopardize their current standings. Key matches include games against UCLA, Maryland, Northwestern, and several other formidable teams. The outcome of these encounters will be crucial in determining whether Wisconsin can maintain its upward trajectory or if it will encounter setbacks. For now, the team's recent form suggests they are well-prepared to capitalize on these opportunities and further strengthen their case for a top seed in the NCAA Tournament.
The Badgers' next test comes on Tuesday night when they travel to face UCLA, currently ranked 34th in the NET rankings. With a strong performance, Wisconsin could continue to build momentum and enhance their tournament prospects. The game is scheduled to start at 9:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast exclusively on Peacock.