INDIANAPOLIS — In a strong performance, Nolan Winter achieved a season-high 20 points, while Steven Crowl contributed significantly with 18 points, helping No. 20 Wisconsin halt their three-game losing streak with an 83-74 victory against Butler during the second matchup of the Indy Classic on Saturday.
In addition to his scoring, Winter secured eight rebounds, and Crowl grabbed six. The Badgers, now sporting a record of 9-3, also saw contributions of 11 points apiece from Max Klesmit and John Tonje. This win marked their first success in four contests this month.
On the opposing side, Butler’s Pierre Brooks led his team with 23 points, while Patrick McCaffery added 16 points along with seven rebounds. This loss increased the Bulldogs’ deficit, marking their third consecutive defeat.
Wisconsin excelled at maintaining possession, committing only three turnovers throughout the game and converting an impressive 25 of 27 free throw attempts, allowing them to stay ahead right from the start.
Although the Badgers experienced a nearly five-minute scoring drought in the first half, they managed to recover. Klesmit’s buzzer-beater three-pointer capped off an 8-0 run, allowing them to establish a comfortable 47-33 lead by halftime. Butler’s efforts fell short, as they couldn’t narrow the gap to less than five points in the second half.
Notably, the game attracted the attention of former NBA star Tyrese Haliburton and WNBA Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, who were both in attendance.
Takeaways:
Wisconsin: The Badgers had faced setbacks in their prior two Big Ten games, alongside a loss to in-state rival No. 5 Marquette. However, this time around, they managed to seize control as the first half concluded and built upon their lead effectively.
Butler: The Bulldogs wrapped up a challenging non-conference schedule with another loss and now brace themselves for a tough start to Big East play, facing two top-20 opponents next week.
Key moment: Wisconsin’s notable eight-point surge in the final minute and six seconds of the first half was pivotal to their eventual success.
Key stat: The Badgers converted their first 22 free throw attempts, including all 15 taken in the first half, which was crucial for them to maintain their lead against Butler.
Up next: Wisconsin is set to face off against Detroit Mercy next Sunday to round out their non-conference schedule, while Butler will take on No. 6 Marquette on Wednesday.