Wisconsin Badgers post strongest defensive game in three seasons in win over Maryland

Wisconsin defeated Maryland 78-45 while allowing a season-low 45 points, moved to 21-9 (13-6 Big Ten) and clinched no worse than the sixth seed in the upcoming Big Ten Tournament.

Wisconsin beat Maryland 78-45 at the Kohl Center, producing what the team described as its best defensive effort in three seasons. The Badgers limited Maryland to 45 points, the fewest surrendered since a November 2023 game, and finished 15-2 at home this season. The victory moved Wisconsin to 21-9 overall and 13-6 in Big Ten play, securing at least the sixth seed in next week's Big Ten Tournament. The result also marked the program's 20th 21-win season and continued coach Greg Gard's run among the school's top single-season win totals. Key facts: - Final score 78-45; Wisconsin improved to 21-9 overall and 13-6 in the Big Ten and clinched no worse than the sixth seed in the Big Ten Tournament. - Wisconsin allowed 45 points, its fewest since a 65-41 win over Virginia on 11/20/23, and its fewest in a Big Ten game since 2/5/22. - The team shot 27-for-56 (48.2%) from the field and 13-for-31 (41.9%) from three, committed just three turnovers, and improved its record when shooting well from distance. - Wisconsin's bench scored 39 points, including 18 from senior Braeden Carrington and 11 from Austin Rapp; John Blackwell added 14 and Nick Boyd scored 13. - UW outscored Maryland 25-0 in fast break points, recorded a +25 fast break differential (the highest of the Gard era), forced 10 turnovers and scored 16 points off takeaways. - The win marked the program's 20th season with 21 or more wins and extended favorable home marks, including a 15-2 home record this season and a strong all-time Kohl Center record. Summary: The game highlighted Wisconsin's defensive strengths and efficient offense, producing a decisive margin and strong statistical edges in turnovers, fast break scoring and bench production. The victory secures at least the No. 6 seed for the Badgers in the Big Ten Tournament next week and reinforces the team's strong home performance this season. Undetermined at this time.