Northwestern (17-15) vs Wisconsin (23-8)
- When: Mar 13 2025, 2:30 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Where to watch: BTN
Big Ten Tournament Second Round: Wisconsin vs. Northwestern Betting Preview
Wisconsin (-8) vs. Northwestern | Total: 141.5
The Wisconsin Badgers aim to regroup from a rough regular-season finale as they take on the Northwestern Wildcats in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament on Thursday in Indianapolis.
Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin (23-8) enters as the No. 5 seed after an unexpected 87-75 loss to Penn State on Saturday, which cost them a coveted double-bye in the tournament. The Badgers had dominated Penn State for three decades, making the upset a major reality check heading into the postseason.
Despite the stumble, Wisconsin remains one of the highest-scoring teams in program history, averaging 80.8 points per game—their best mark since 1970-71. They’ve hit the 80-point mark in 16 games this season, the most in school history.
The Badgers also thrive defensively, holding opponents under 70 points in 32 of their last 33 wins. However, recent losses show they have struggled to close out games, blowing a 15-point second-half lead to Oregon before surrendering a 13-point advantage against Penn State.
Wisconsin boasts one of the most efficient offenses in the nation, leading all teams in free-throw shooting at 83.6%. They’ve converted more free throws (514) than their opponents have attempted (511), a significant factor in their ability to control late-game situations.
John Tonje (18.9 PPG) and John Blackwell (15.6 PPG) lead the offensive charge, with Blackwell playing some of his best basketball down the stretch, averaging 21 points and 8 rebounds over the last four games. Starting guard Max Klesmit (lower leg injury) missed the last three contests but confirmed he’ll return for this game, providing another scoring option.
Wisconsin has won the Big Ten Tournament three times (2004, 2008, 2015) and is eager to add another championship to its resume.
Northwestern Wildcats
Northwestern (17-15) pulled off a gritty 72-64 win over Minnesota in the opening round on Wednesday, powered by a career-best 28-point performance from Nick Martinelli. The Wildcats are now looking to carry that momentum into an upset bid against Wisconsin.
The Wildcats have been plagued by inconsistency throughout the season, including three separate three-game losing streaks during conference play. Injuries have also taken a toll, with key players Brooks Barnhizer (17.1 PPG, 8.8 RPG) and Jalen Leach (14.3 PPG) both suffering season-ending injuries.
Northwestern’s strength lies in its defensive intensity, but stopping Wisconsin will be a major challenge. The Wildcats allowed 50 second-half points in their last matchup against the Badgers, a 75-69 loss on Feb. 1.
Martinelli (20.4 PPG) has stepped up in the absence of Northwestern’s key scorers, but he’ll need help from Ty Berry (10.6 PPG) and the rest of the roster to keep pace with Wisconsin’s high-powered attack.
Betting Prediction
Wisconsin has struggled to close games recently, but their offensive efficiency and experience should give them the edge over a depleted Northwestern squad playing on short rest. With the return of Klesmit and Blackwell’s emergence as a key scorer, expect the Badgers to wear down the Wildcats late.
Pick: Wisconsin (-8) to Cover
Lean: Over 141.5 – Wisconsin’s offense should dictate the pace
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
