A disappointing end to Wisconsin seniors

Turnovers were the difference for Wisconsin, but it was surprisingly Cornell who had the better differential. Wisconsin had 10 turnovers, and Cornell scored over 15 points from them in the 87-69 loss.

Wisconsin also could rebound the ball defensively, giving up seven offensive rebounds to the Big Red. The second chances combined with a 61 shooting percentage, including eight of 15 from the 3-point line were too much for Wisconsin to overcome.

For Jason Bohannon and Trevon Hughes, the loss is a disappointing end to a great career for the seniors. Wisconsin wasn’t expected to be here when the season started, so it should be seen as a success. However, the Badgers played so well, it really seemed like Wisconsin would be a tough out.

Cornell is very dangerous in the Sweet 16 now. They shoot well, and they are experienced. Kentucky will need to pressure the shooters much better than Wisconsin. A huge difference for Kentucky is they have the weapons to score 80-90 points. Wisconsin had some good looks in the second half, but they failed to take advantage of them. Kentucky should shoot better than the Badgers, and Cornell will have the pressure to keep up the 3-point percentage.

Cornell dominating offensive glass; Wisconsin beating themselves

Wisconsin trails 43-31 at the half for three reasons.

1) Cornell’s shooting

They are shooting 59 percent from the field and hit four of eight from the 3-point line. They have also hit seven of eight from the free throw-line. Ryan Wittman has hit six of eight from the field for 14 points.

2) Offensive rebounding for opponent

Cornell has seven offensive rebounds, while Wisconsin has three defensive rebounds. Cornell has hit two of their 3-pointers from passes after a rebound on the offensive glass.

3) Turnover differential

The Badgers have six turnovers, and Cornell has scored 12 points after a turnover. On the other side, the Big Red has three turnovers. Wisconsin has no points to show for them.

Wisconsin will need to limit the turnovers and rebound better if they want a chance to comeback in the game. Cornell is hooting well, but they have made the Badgers pay with second chance points and points off of turnovers. If the Badgers can protect the ball and hold Cornell to one attempt per trip, they can put pressure on the Big Red to continue the high shooting percentage.

The Badgers will also need someone to join Jon Leuer. Jason Bohannon and Trevon Hughes started to make some shots, but they will have to do much better in the second half.

Bohannon stepping up

Jason Bohannon is answering the call for the Badgers, but the Wisconsin back court needs to step up. Trevon Hughes does not look sharp, so far.

Since Jon Leuer scored the team’s first 12 points, Bohannon has since scored seven of the team’s next nine.

Hughes has two points.

Cornell has missed shots in its last few possessions, yet, they are still shooting 52 percent from the floor. The Badgers are staying in the game, shooting 50 percent.

Wisconsin a little tense at the start.

At the first break in the action, the storyline of the game remains turnovers. The Badgers had a rare errant pass from Trevon Hughes and Wisconsin falls down 6-0 early. Cornell is quick, and they are hitting their shots early. Bo Ryan is doing the right thing by calling a timeout to calm Wisconsin down. They are a little tense and indecisive in the first few minutes.

Wisconsin survives shakey performance

Jon Leuer’s field goal from the left side of the key saved the Badgers and got them through an ugly – no gross – no disgusting win. Leuer then gave Wisconsin the win with his free throws with 4.2 seconds.

Wisconsin won 53-49.

The Badger forward finished with 20 points and nine rebounds to go with Trevon Hughes’ 19 points.

The Badgers played down to their Wofford opponents today, and they’ll need to look way sharper against Cornell on Sunday.

Wisconsin was out-shot by their opponents 40 percent to 37 percent. The Badgers, who are have sharpshooting guards Hughes and Jason Bohannon, made just 1-of-8 free throws on the game.

Woffords 11 turnovers were Wisconsin’s saving grace.

Badgers, Pitt in control

The Badgers are in control and it’s because senior Trevon Hughes is playing well. Hughes has 14 points at halftime and Wofford has scored 19 as a team.

Jon Leuer has eight points and seven rebounds to compliment Hughes.

The Badgers have only made 1-of-5 3-pointers, but Wofford has zero.

Wisconsin is shooting 10-of-29 from the floor compared to Wofford’s 7-of-25.

The Badgers are in control of this game. If they keep up the intensity they can count down to the second round.

In other action, Pittsburgh is leading Oakland 39-26. Pittsburgh went on a 26-4 run during the first half to establish their lead. They have a balanced attack with three players scoring eight points each.

Pittsburgh is out rebounding Oakland 20-12.