BUFFALO, NY. The #8 Wisconsin Badgers downed the #9 Virginia Tech Hokies 84-74 in NCAA East Regional First Round action in Buffalo, NY Thursday night. Senior sharpshooter Bronson Koenig led the way with 28 points, including a club-recored 8-17 on three-pointers. Senior forward Nigel Hayes added 16 with 10 rebounds and went 8 of 9 from the free throw line, a remarkable achievement for a 56% free throw shooter coming into the game. The Badgers won the game on the offensive boards where they grabbed 14 to the Hokies 4 on their way to a hefty 33-22 rebounding advantage.
As predicted, the Hokies played the Badgers tough and remained within three points for most of the second half. Senior Zach LeDay had 23 points before fouling out late in his last college game. Ty Outlaw added 16 for the Hokies, who finished the season at 22-11.
The Badgers are now 26-9 and will face the #1 seed Villanova Wildcats (32-3) in the Round of 32 on Saturday. Villanova beat surprisingly competitive #16 Mt. St. Mary’s 76-56, after trailing most of the first half. Game time is still TBD.
PWs
03/17/17
What a game Wisconsin beating defending champions Villanova this Saturday in the NCAA. Both teams played like champions and the toughest team won.
I usually root for Wisconsin when a game doesn’t involve my beloved Iowa Hawkeyes. Although I’ve heard they eat people there. But I’m also thrilled that my Villanova grad dentist won’t brag when he works on my teeth this week.
Can’t talk back with torture instruments filling my mouth! Nightmares of “Marathon Man”, and Lawrence Olivier torturing Dustin Hoffman, etc! Go Badgers.
Thanks, Gus! It was a classic! See my complete report elsewhere on immigrationcourtside.com. I actually thought the Badgers were goners, but they hung in there. And, as I mentioned, Coach Jay Wright and his Wildcats are classy in victory and classy in defeat. Great role models! Two great teams. Badgers just “wanted” it a little more today.
Best,
PWS