Michigan basketball faces a big test in Big Ten opener at #11 Wisconsin

After an impressive week that saw Dusty May’s Michigan basketball team rack up double-digit wins over Virginia Tech and Xavier, the Wolverines are gearing up for their toughest test yet. Michigan opens Big Ten play on the road against a scorching hot Wisconsin team, currently ranked 17th on the NET and 11th in the latest AP Top 25 poll. Despite playing four high major programs already, Michigan has yet to play a Quad 1 or Quad 2 game. Wisconsin will be the first Quad 1 matchup of the year.

Michigan basketball faces a “new” Wisconsin

This isn’t your typical Wisconsin squad. Known historically for their slow, deliberate pace, the Badgers have adopted a more up-tempo style, ranking in the top 150 nationally in pace. A major change from their usual place outside the top 300. They’ve embraced an aggressive approach, shooting transition threes and attacking early in possessions.

Team stat comparison:

Michigan and Wisconsin national stats via Yahoo!

The Badgers are led by one of the most dynamic backcourts in the country. Without a true point guard, they rely on a trio of talented combo guards who have been a nightmare for opposing defenses:

#9 John Tonje

At 6’5″ and 220 pounds, John Tonje has emerged as a frontrunner for First-Team All-Big Ten honors and potentially All-American status. Averaging 23 points per game (7th nationally), Tonje is extremely efficient. He’s shooting 52.7% from the field, 42.1% from deep, and 94.5% from the free-throw line. His ability to draw fouls and get to the line, where he attempts over nine free throws per game (2nd nationally), is a critical part of his game. Michigan’s best wing defenders Rubin Jones and Nimari Burnett will have their hands full trying to contain him.

#25 John Blackwell

Blackwell has stepped up in his sophomore season, averaging 15 points per game while shooting 46% from the field and 36% from three. His downhill attacking style and ability to score in the midrange or post make him a versatile threat. He showcased his scoring prowess with a 30-point outburst earlier in the season, making him a player Michigan must account for.

#11 Max Klesmit

While Klesmit’s shooting percentages are down this year, his relentless energy and leadership make him a crucial piece of Wisconsin’s puzzle. He leads the team in minutes played and has been aggressive in attacking the basket, earning trips to the free-throw line, where he’s shooting 92%.

Frontcourt matchups to watch

Wisconsin’s starting frontcourt features a pair of 7-footers in Nolan Winter and Steven Crowl, both capable of stretching the floor with their three-point shooting. Winter’s mobility and Crowl’s post presence will challenge Michigan’s big men, Danny Wolf and Vlad Goldin. Wolf will put pressure on both Crowl and Winter with his offensive skillset and possibly force Wisconsin to play smaller at the power forward spot.

Off the bench they’ll play Kamari McGee as the 6th starter who is mostly an energy guy but if given space he can hurt you from deep where he shoots 53% on the year. The shooting form doesn’t look pretty the best, but it goes in.

To pull off a road win against an undefeated Wisconsin team, Michigan basketball will need to:

1. Limit Free Throws: Wisconsin leads the nation in free-throw percentage (86.4%) and ranks 59th in attempts. Michigan must avoid fouls, especially against Tonje and Klesmit, who excel at drawing contact.
2. Control Tempo: Despite Wisconsin’s increased pace, Michigan needs to dictate the flow of the game. Forcing the Badgers into half-court sets could disrupt their rhythm.
3. Contain Tonje: Michigan’s perimeter defenders must prioritize limiting Tonje’s touches and keeping him off the free-throw line. Forcing him into tough, contested jumpers and layups will be critical. Must stay on balance.

A statement opportunity

A win in Madison would provide Michigan with its first Quad 1 victory and a significant boost in the national standings. For Wisconsin, staying undefeated in conference play would solidify their position as a legitimate contender. The tip-off should be around 9pm EST on Peacock.

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