Big Ten Tournament Semifinal prediction and game preview for Purdue vs. Wisconsin…
Though it ended in a 78-70 defeat, Wisconsin gave Purdue a strong push in the season’s last game.After the way the Badgers performed in their opening two Big Ten Tournament games, that seems like a month ago.After defeating Maryland 87-56, everything came together for the O to win convincingly over a hurt Northwestern team. Once this team arrived in Minneapolis, it appeared and performed, at the absolute least, like a new team.Even though it wasn’t spectacular, the defense improved it even further.
Though it was still not spectacular, the defense improved it more. With Chucky Hepburn a little injured, the depth is now beginning to show through. The scoring came from a few different spots. There’s been a bit more enthusiasm all around.Purdue is what Purdue is. It has excellent scoring ability, will receive a #1 seed, and appears to struggle a little bit in every game.The ability to prevail in close games against strong teams is a sign of a successful club, but the Badgers can attack Zach Edey on the inside more if star guard Braden Smith is out following an injury sustained during the victory against Michigan State.
Yes, Wisconsin defeated a napping Maryland club and overcame a paper-thin Northwestern team that needed Boo Buie to keep scoring to stay in the game.While Wisconsin’s defense did play a little better and did manage to put some pressure on Purdue, Edey’s 25 points and 14 rebounds was too much for the opposition to handle, and the team’s backcourt is deeper than merely Smith, who may or may not be good. Fouls were an issue against Northwestern, the Badgers’ lack of mobility is still present, and both issues will be noticeable against the dependable Boilermakers. Additionally…
The Badger defense isn’t particularly good. The offense must, and will, continue to burn brightly from the outside. Purdue doesn’t need to take any drastic measures, but does it have the necessary enthusiasm and focus? Wisconsin looks to be playing much looser and having a lot more fun, while the Boilermakers are all about making up for their loss to Wisconsin in the NCAA Tournament last year. Although there may be a brief shootout, Purdue will surprisingly falter in the closing minutes.
