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Wisconsin basketball notched a season-defining victory on Friday night, a 103-88 win over No. 9 Arizona
The result carries significant weight, but so does the Badgers’ form in the win. The team crossed the 100-point mark against a power conference opponent for the first time since 1993. It was an offensive display that would’ve seemed impossible for previous Wisconsin teams — those from even just a few years ago.
Related: Biggest takeaways from Wisconsin basketball’s big win over Arizona
Everything about the win is a direct testament to the job done by Greg Gard leading the program forward amid changes to the sport’s landscape.
First, the Badgers attempted 27 three-pointers and 25 two-pointers, making 12 and 13, respectively. That new analytics-driven offensive approach has revolutionized the offense — a portion of the program that was in disarray as recently as two years ago. Gard’s hire of assistant Kirk Penney and willingness to evolve are to thank.
Next, Gard continues to score big landing underrated players in the transfer portal. Last year, it was A.J. Storr and Max Klesmit. This year, John Tonje already looks like the steal of the offseason. His 41 points and program-record 21 free throws on 22 attempts powered Wisconsin’s win. Despite losing high-profile players Storr and Chucky Hepburn to the portal, Gard has given a blueprint of how traditionally-developmental programs can thrive in the current era.
Third, Wisconsin is still defined by its same identity, led by a culture of player development and buy-in. Max Klesmit and Kamari McGee embody that culture. McGee especially, who joined the Badgers after one year at UW-Green Bay without any playing time assurances. He’s taken substantial leaps each season and is now a key cog in the team’s rotation.
While it sounds cliche, that identity of development flies directly in the face of the modern age of the sport. But it has always defined Wisconsin basketball, and continues to do so.
Nov 15, 2024; Madison,…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/column-greg-gard-modernized-badger-201955736.html
Author : Badgers Wire
Publish date : 2024-11-16 20:19:00
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