Even though the season is only three games long, the NCAA Bracketology League has already started and the Wisconsin Badgers have been added to it.
Currently, Badgers along with Iowa, San Diego State and UCF are considered a “First Four Out” school. The Badgers started the season 3-0 after defeating Holy Cross, Montana State and App State in Madison. However, Wisconsin has a complex road ahead, and while analysts are confident about the team’s makeup heading into the tournament, time will tell whether the Badgers will even be considered.
The Wisconsin Badgers have to play Arizona, Marquette, Rutgers, Ohio State, Indiana and Purdue this season, all of which are ranked teams. In addition to the tough ranking matchups, Wisconsin also plays UCF, Illinois (twice) and Iowa (twice), all of whom are hoping to extend their season.
First, the Wisconsin Badgers will have to get through Arizona and UCF before they can really consider whether their team has what it takes to move forward. Wisconsin has lost all three games this season at some point on multiple possessions, which is unlikely to happen with better competition in the future. Both the Wildcats and Knights are two teams that are also struggling to play good basketball in March, so these games will be key for Wisconsin to find out where they stand.
Can the Wisconsin Badgers sneak into the 2024 NCAA Tournament in March?
While the Wisconsin Badgers are not currently considered a “tournament team,” if some games go in their favor, that could certainly change.
Starting with the elephant in the room, the Wisconsin Badgers will need convincing wins against better competition. Wisconsin is still looking for a solution, and that’s expected after major changes to Madison’s team this offseason. The Badgers will need to find a solution quickly against a tough Arizona team that can really run up the score.
The Wildcats are not only the earliest test for the Wisconsin Badgers, but perhaps the most complete test due to the makeup of the team. Arizona is a team expected to make a deep run in March, and if Wisconsin belongs in the tournament, it must at least compete with the Wildcats. Wisconsin currently has just a six-point lead over the Wildcats, which means oddsmakers are predicting a rather close game between the two.
While many Wisconsin Badgers fans may fear a blowout due to inconsistencies within the team, the game could end with a different outcome.
The next real test for Wisconsin will be against UCF, another team in a very similar situation to the Badgers. UCF upset Texas A&M earlier this season to prove how talented the team could be, but then almost lost to FAU in incredible style. UCF has arguably the toughest schedule in the conference this season, playing against Iowa State twice as well as facing Arizona, Houston, Cincinnati, Baylor and Kansas.
The Wisconsin Badgers will be in a different situation at UCF, however, as a win over the Knights is needed to prove that Wisconsin can withstand solid competition.
For more great Wisconsin sports content
Follow me on Twitter (X) @JarrettGuerreraand follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date with all Wisconsin sports events, click here
Mayfield Sports Marketing
Call Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188 to schedule Green Bay Packers players or alumni for a corporate appearance or product promotion. Our booking agents will work on your behalf to get you the best price for your chosen sports speaker. Mayfield Sports Marketing has gained a reputation as a company that invites top athletes to speak at events and trade shows. To learn more about Packers or alumni appearance costs and booking fees, call us today. www.MayfieldSports.com.
