In a heart-stopping match at Ball Arena on March 22, 2025, BYU edged the Wisconsin Badgers 91-89 to advance to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2011. Despite a stellar individual performance from Wisconsin's John Tonje, who established a new program record with 37 points in a single NCAA tournament game, the Badgers could not secure the victory.
From the opening tip, BYU, the sixth seed in the tournament, looked to dominate, displaying an aggressive offense that sent Wisconsin into a slow start. Early on, the Cougars built a substantial lead, peaking at 14 points during the first half. They ended the half with a 47-36 advantage, mostly controlling the momentum throughout the game. Wisconsin's coach Greg Gard later noted, “The ending stinks, but the ride was a hell of a lot of fun,” reflecting the mixed emotions of disappointment and pride in his team’s effort.
As the game progressed, BYU maintained its lead, bolstered by key contributions from Richie Saunders, who scored 25 points, and Dawson Baker, who was ejected after elbowing Wisconsin’s Max Klesmit during a crucial moment late in the contest. Baker’s ejection created an opening for Wisconsin as the Badgers seized the opportunity to mount a comeback.
Tonje, undeterred by a lackluster first half where he went 0-for-4 from three-point range, ignited after the break. His determination was unmatched as he refused to let the game slip away. With fan support roaring as he made key baskets—three-pointers and stunning layups—he brought Wisconsin back into contention. As he chipped away at BYU's lead, his teammates followed suit. John Blackwell also stepped up, contributing 21 points in the match.
By the final minute, with Wisconsin trailing by just two points, the stage was set for a dramatic finish. With the clock dwindling down to the last seconds, Tonje had the ball in his hands, poised to either tie the game or win it. Unfortunately for the Badgers, his fadeaway shot at the buzzer missed the mark—resulting in a despondent moment as BYU celebrated their victory.
The scoreboard had malfunctioned at points during the match, leading to jokes among fans about Tonje’s prolific scoring “breaking” it. This game marked the first time a player crossed the 30-point threshold in this year’s March Madness, showcasing Tonje as a burgeoning standout in collegiate basketball. The missed opportunity will linger for not only Tonje but the entire Wisconsin program, which has not reached the Sweet 16 since 2017.
Reflecting on Tonje’s performance, he leaves behind a significant legacy. Originally a standout at Colorado State before transferring, he had a difficult prior season at Missouri that ended early due to injury. This year, he averaged 19.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, and his historic 37-point outing against BYU showcased the talent that Badgers fans hope to see in the future.
While BYU’s victory propels them forward, they know that Wisconsin put up quite the fight. The Cougars, now 26-9, poised to face either Alabama or St. Mary’s in the next round, rejoiced in their first Sweet 16 appearance since Jimmer Fredette led them a decade ago. They effectively maintained their composure despite Wisconsin's furious comeback, which speaks volumes about their resilience.
As for Wisconsin, the loss raises pressing questions about the upcoming season. Coach Gard must now look to maintain this momentum while rebuilding his program. With Tonje departing to pursue a professional career, keeping key players like Blackwell will be crucial for a successful next season.
The bitterness of defeat remains fresh, but Tonje’s electrifying performance will be remembered as a bright spot in an otherwise bittersweet ending for the Badgers' 2025 season. With fans and alumni celebrating this historic contribution and showing appreciation for a season that exceeded many expectations, the Badgers are left to reflect on what was a memorable journey through March Madness.
Tonje himself was quoted saying, "Just trying to get downhill and make a play,” after the game, encapsulating the ethos of not only his performance but the spirit of a team determined to overcome obstacles, asserting that while they came up short this year, the future holds promise.
Wisconsin's road to recovery begins now, with all eyes on who will fill the void left by their departing star. For now, though, they'll carry forward the lessons learned from this hard-fought match and the memories made during the tournament, inspired by the will and determination displayed on the court against BYU.
