The Wisconsin Badgers are set to square off against the Montana Grizzlies on Thursday, March 20, 2025, kicking off at 1:30 p.m. EDT. This first-round matchup in the NCAA Tournament will take place at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, and features Wisconsin, the No. 3 seed, as heavy favorites against the No. 14 seed Grizzlies.
The Badgers come into the tournament with a strong season record of 26-9, finishing 16-8 in the Big Ten, while the Grizzlies boast a similar record of 25-9, having prevailed in the Big Sky Tournament to secure their spot in the NCAA Tournament. According to FOX Sports, Wisconsin is favored by 17.5 points going into this matchup.
This game highlights contrasting performance metrics from both teams. Wisconsin not only averages 79.7 points per game but also allows 72.9 points, showcasing their aggressive offensive playstyle. This potent combination has resulted in a record of 22-5 when scoring over 72.9 points. The Badgers' success can be attributed to their exceptional shooting prowess, hitting 46.8% from the field this season. Their standout player, John Tonje, has played a crucial role, averaging 19.2 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, further solidifying his team's offensive depth.
On the other side, the Montana Grizzlies average 76.9 points per game and have established a solid defense, allowing only 70.4 points on average. The Grizzlies have maintained a record of 19-3 when conceding fewer than 79.7 points. Their offensive threat is led by Money Williams, who averages 13.3 points per game, contributing significantly to the scoring efforts of the team.
The over/under for this game is set at 152.5 points, indicating expectations of a competitive and high-scoring affair. Montana has overcome the odds before, demonstrating resilience and skill throughout their season. They secured their spot in the NCAA Tournament after an impressive Big Sky Tournament victory, marking a notable achievement that highlighted their capability to compete at higher levels.
Both teams feature additional players who have made significant contributions this season. Wisconsin has John Blackwell averaging 15.5 points and Steven Crowl contributing 9.6 points and 5.4 rebounds. For Montana, standout performance comes from Joe Pridgen, who is averaging 11.5 points and 6.9 rebounds, along with Malik Moore and Kai Johnson, both crucial for their overall gameplay strategy.
The matchup promises not just a battle of skill but also strategic depth, as both coaches will adjust their plans based on the strengths and weaknesses exposed throughout the season. The stakes are undeniably high, as both teams vie for the opportunity to move forward in the tournament bracket.
As fans count down to the start of the game, the atmosphere in Denver is expected to be electric. With the weight of NCAA tournament tradition on the line, this is not merely a game but a chance for redemption and legacy for both programs. As we prepare for tip-off, all eyes will be on the performance and reactions of these teams under the high-pressure environment of tournament play.
This matchup is sure to be an exhilarating round in the NCAA Tournament, with plenty at stake for both teams. Expectations are high as the teams prepare for what would be an unforgettable encounter, one that could set the tone for the rest of their tournament journey.
