@BadgerMBB | #Fieldof68 | #Fieldof32 | #Fieldof16 | #Fieldof8
| 2014 NCAA Tournament - National Semifinal |
(8) Kentucky 74, (2) Wisconsin 73
Saturday, April 5 | AT&T Stadium | Arlington, Texas
Recap | Notes | Highlights | Broadcast Highlights | Quotes |
Finally, game day has arrived at the Final Four. The preparations are complete and all that's left for the Badgers is to take the floor at AT&T Stadium at approximately 7:49 p.m. for a national semifinal clash with Kentucky. The winner will be just one step away from a national championship.
Who is the Badgers' X-factor for their matchup with Kentucky? Well, first of all, what's an X-factor? Mike Lucas talked with some of the biggest voices in basketball to get their take on who -- and what -- can make the difference for Wisconsin against the Wildcats.
Lucas: What is Wisconsin's X-factor? Depends on who you ask
Before the take their seats courtside to call the Badgers' first Final Four game since 2000, Mike Lucas and Matt Lepay take a few minutes to give their take on the keys for Wisconsin in a special Final Four edition of "Badger Breakdown."
Badger Breakdown: Wisconsin vs. Kentuck
The Badgers were back on the floor at AT&T Stadium on Friday for their open practice session in front of a crowd that included quite a bit of red. Members of the team also met the media for a final time before Saturday's national semifinal showdown. But most importanly, Friday mean the release of the latest (and greatest?) episode of "Hayes for Days" with Nigel Burgundy (see above).
Hayes for Days: Final Four Edition
The Badgers got their first look at AT&T Stadium on Thursday for a closed practice session after taking part in a number of photo and video shoots in preparation for Saturday's national semifinal. From there, the team headed to downtown Dallas to take in Bracket Town and the NCAA Salute program emceed by CBS Sports' Jim Nantz -- and featuring a special guest in former President George W. Bush.
Bohannon Meets President Bush
Head coach Bo Ryan also joined Kentucky's John Calipari on the podium for a news conference Thursdasy, while senior Ben Brust represented the Badgers to the media.
"It would be so exciting if we were to be the last team standing," Ryan said when asked about what a national championship would mean for UW. "I would just stand back and look at those guys and just smile inside and outside."
Transcript
After squeezing in one final practice in Madison, the Badgers were wheels up for Texas and landed in Dallas to begin their on-site preparations for Saturday's Final Four matchup with Kentucky.
Channel3000.com: Badgers arrive in Dallas to prepare for Final Four
Remember the Badgers' last dance in the Final Four? Take a look back on the team's unlikely road to Indianapolis with our special retrospective:
2000 Final Four Review
Between a hard-fought victory over Arizona in the Elite Eight and sending head coach Bo Ryan to his first Final Four, the Badgers will carry plenty of emotion into their Final Four clash with Kentucky, Mike Lucas writes:
Lucas: Badgers playing for Bo, Butch and, especially, each other
As they began their preparation for Kentucky, head coach Bo Ryan, juniors Josh Gasser and Traevon Jackson and sophomore Sam Dekker met with members of the media Monday to talk about the challenges the Wildcats will present in the Final Four.
Transcripts
The Badgers touched down in Madison on Sunday afternoon and proceeded directly to the Kohl Center, where they were welcomed by more than 7,000 fans that turned out for a special Final Four celebration.
Highlights: Final Four Welcome Celebration
An all-access look at the Badgers' Final Four-clinching win over Arizona. Trust us, this one's worth reliving.
Elite Eight All-Access
Help welcome the West Regional champion Badgers back to Madison at a special welcome event at approximately 4 p.m. Sunday at the Kohl Center. Doors for the free event will open at 3 p.m.
Welcome Home Event (4 p.m., Kohl Center)
The West is won! In claiming a hard-fought 64-63 overtime victory over No. 1 seed Arizona on Saturday, the Badgers claimed the title of West Regional champions and are moving on to the Final Four:
The West is won: Badgers claim OT thriller to earn spot in Final Four
Broadcast Highlights | Locker Room Reaction
The top two seeds have held their ground and now it's time to see which will move on to the Final Four. UWBadgers.com's Mike Lucas and the Badgers' radio voice, Matt Lepay, take a final look at the Arizona-Wisconsin matchup in the latest edition of "Badger Breakdown."
Badger Breakdown: Elite Eight vs. Arizona
Even if all the talk among fans and media is about what would come next, the Badgers know the only way to get to the Final Four is to focus on Arizona. "The Elite Eight game could be a trap if you think like that, if you overlook an opponent, especially a good opponent like Arizona," Nigel Hayes said. "If we look ahead, we may end up losing and not get there."
Mike Lucas: Badgers refuse to take eyes off (tall) task at hand
... and just in case you're concerned about the Badgers' mindset heading into their big matchup with Arizona, fear not. As Nigel "Burgundy" proves in his latest "Hayes for Days" segment, this group is as loose as ever.
Hayes for Dayes: Elite 8 Edition
Around the Web
ESPN.com: Rick Riley: Acing the finals
LA Times: Bo Ryan keeps things simple for Wisconsin
New York Times: Once a source of entertainment, now a rival coach
Arizona Republic: Bo Ryan remembers Sean Miller in a Superman cape
Wall Street Journal: Can Badgers break 'Zona?
CBSSports.com: Miller vs. Ryan and analytics vs. old school
Yahoo Sports: Ryan seeks to honor father's memory by taking Wisconsin to Final Four
Madison.com: Oates: Final Four trip would take on different meaning for Ryan
Madison.com: Hot offense takes on Arizona's top-ranked defense
Madison.com: Bo Ryan, Arizona's Rondae Hollis-Jefferson share hometown bond
JSOnline: Players say Bo Ryan is great coach, with our without a Final Four
JSOnline: Badgers zoned in on Arizona's man-to-man defense
JSOnline: Bench could swing things in Badgers' favor
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Badgers say Ryan doesn't need validation of a Final Four
Elite Eight. Yep, sounds just as good this morning as it did last night. Go behind the scenes of the Badgers' 69-52 win over Baylor with "Wisconsin Basketball Sweet 16 All-Access."
Wisconsin Basketball Sweet 16 All-Access
With 29 wins and their first berth to the Elite Eight since 2005, the Badgers have put together a fantastic season. But by no means are they content with what they've accomplished. Not when they're this close to the Final Four, Mike Lucas writes:
Badger Rewind: Ever closer to the top, Badgers still far from satisfied
Around the Web
ESPN.com: Five Things: Wisconsin on to Elite Eight
ESPN.com: Vitale: Don't overlook Wisconsin
SI.com: Badgers, all business on court but starstruck off it, move into Elite Eight
USAToday.com: Why you want to root for Bo Ryan
USAToday.com: Kaminsky's diverse skillset could be Wisconsin's ticket to Final Four
Sporting News: Wisconsin's defensive artistry paints Elite (Eight) picture
CBSSports.com: Kaminsky, Wisconsin get Austin, Baylor backing down, then out
Yahoo Sports: Wisconsin cheered on by Aaron Rodgers, other high-profile NFLers
BTN.com: Dienhart: Badgers dominant in win over Baylor
Denver Post: Bo Ryan knows coaching and lessons of life as Wisconsin boss
Madison.com: Oates: Win brings back Final Four memories
Madison.com: Frank Kaminsky serves as major road block for Baylor
JSOnline: Kaminsky shows fancy footwork in defeat of Baylor
JSOnline: Ben Brust fulfills tasks assigned to him in win over Baylor
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Wisconsin dominantes with confidence, mental toughness
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Aaron Rodgers' appearance overshadows big win -- almost
Never in doubt! Behind 19 points and six blocks from Frank Kaminsky, the Badgers blitzed sixth-seeded Baylor on both ends of the floor Thursday, scoring a 69-52 win over the Bears at Honda Center to advance to their first Elite Eight since 2005. Wisconsin will face the winner of top-seeded Arizona and No. 4 seed San Diego State in the West Regional final on Saturday.
Play on, Wisconsin: Badgers blitz Baylor, advance to Elite Eight
Broadcast Highlights | Locker Room Reaction
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Notice anything different about the Badgers this year? They're far from uptight, but this loose group has shown its ability to smile off the court and get serious come game time. So can goofiness lead to greatness? In this week's issue of Varsity, the Badgers themselves say it certainly can't hurt heading into their lastest Sweet 16 matchup.
Chemistry class: Finding fun (and success) with the Badgers
Lucas: Mike Kelley says Final Four more doing than dreaming
Lepay: Badgers able to sit back and enjoy the ride
Photos: A memorable night in Milwaukee
Triumphant turnaround: UW advances on late rally
History: Cinderella Badgers win national championship
In case you needed additional proof that the Badgers are a loose bunch, Nigel Burgandy is back for a third installment of his locker room interview series "Hayes for Days."
Hayes For Days: Sweet 16 Edition
Around the Web
ESPN.com: Kaminsky's versatility works well for Badgers
SI.com: Seth Davis' Sweet 16 picks
USA Today: Frank Kaminsky provides rare weapon for Wisconsin
USA Today: 8 bold predictions heading into the Sweet 16
Madison.com: Much-improved athleticism of UW still elusive to many observers
Madison.com: Losing has always driven Josh Gasser to win
Madison.com: Baylor has height in abundance
JSOnline: Sam Dekker continuing to improve in second season
JSOnline: Spiraling season tested Baylor's character
JSOnline: Scott Drew impressed by UW's ability to get out and run
San Diego Union-Tribune: If you don't know Bo, you should
The Badgers got their first look at the Honda Center on Wednesday, hitting the court for an open practice session after meeting with members of the media to talk about Thursday's regional semifinal showdown with Baylor.
Press Conference Transcript
After taking in both teams' open practice sessions Wednesday, the Wisconsin broadcast team of Mike Lucas and Matt Lepay give their take on the Badgers-Bears matchup in the latest edition of "Badger Breakdown."
The Badgers aren't in Hollywood -- close, Anaheim -- but freshman Jordan Hill has answered the casting call for someone to play dynamic Baylor guard Kenny Chery. The Southern California native is giving his all to playing the role of the opposition for UW's scout team.
Lucas: SoCal native Hill at home helping Badgers prep for Baylor
Around the Web
Madison.com: Deception on offense could disrupt Baylor's zone
Madison.com: Rules changes haven't limited importance of defense
JSOnline: UW focues on Baylor's zone defense
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Badgers not content with Sweet 16 but focused on moment
Waco Tribune: After rough stretch, Baylor connecting dots in tournament
Waco Tribune: Throw out those old myths about Baylor basketball
Dallas Morning News: Injury hasn't prevented Austing from leading Baylor into Sweet 16
Dallas Morning News: Steve Kerr sees potential 'slugfest' between Baylor and Wisconsin
The Badgers made their way to California, departing Madison around 9 a.m. Following the almost four-hour plane trip, their first order of business was practice at Cal State Fullerton.
If you're in Southern California on Wednesday you'll want to head to JT Scmidt's Restaurant and Brewery in Anaheim from 6-8 p.m. for the official Badgers' Sweet 16 Pep Rally. Also, don't forget about UW's open practice from 2:10-3 p.m. at the Honda Center.
Fan events announced for Sweet 16
Around the Web
Madison.com: Small but loud crowd, band expected for Badgers in Anaheim
JSOnline: Traevon Jackson thrives with the game on the line
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Wisconsin knows skilled, athletic Baylor squad awaits in Anaheim
Facing a quick turnaround, the Badgers' preparation for No. 6 seed Baylor began in earnest when Wisconsin returned to the practice floor at the Kohl Center on Monday afternoon. Head coach Bo Ryan, senior Ben Brust, junior Frank Kaminsky and sophomore Same Dekker also met the media to talk about their Sweet 16 matchup before the team departs for the NCAA West Regional on Tuesday.
Game Notes: NCAA West Regional
Around the Web
Madison.com: Saturday's gritty win brings regional semifinal game against Baylor
JSOnline: Wisconsin to meet Baylor in Sweet 16
It was a simple question. "How are you going to feel on the bus ride home? Do you want it to be a good feeling?" That's the question junior Frank Kaminsky said head coach Bo Ryan posed to the Badgers at halftime of their third-round matchup with Oregon on Saturday.
Mike Lucas writes that the team's answer was clear, with UW coming out firing and outscoring the Ducks 48-28 in the second half en route to an impressive win and its sixth Sweet 16 bid in the last 12 years.
Badger Rewind: UW heads home happy after triumphant turnaround
Around the Web
ESPN.com: Badgers ride emotion into Sweet 16
SI.com: Wisconsin advances with enthralling comeback victory over Oregon
USA Today: Wisconsin rallies past Oregon into Sweet 16
Madison.com: Safe at any speed, UW drives to Sweet 16
JSOnline: Badgers ride fans' raucous support to victory
JSOnline: Jackson, Gasser overcome struggles
JSOnline: Brust's clutch 3-pointer sets UW career record
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Wisconsin responds to coach's simple message, rallies past Oregon
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Brust makes historic 3 at the best possible moment
How Sweet it is! For the third time in four years, the Badgers are headed to the second weekend of the NCAA tournament after rallying to top No. 7 seed Oregon 85-77 on Saturday. The Badgers will face the winner of Sunday's matchup between Baylor and Creighton in a West Regional semifinal next Thursday in Anaheim, Calif.
Glass masters: Big boards help Badgers surge past Ducks, into Sweet 16
Highlights | Locker Room | Singing 'Varsity'
Mike Lucas takes a look at the differing styles -- but identical goals -- of Wisconsin and Oregon as the teams prepare to tangle in their third-round game on Saturday.
Lucas: Badgers and Ducks have contrasting styles, same goals
Around the Web
ESPN.com: Big Ten defenses will be put to the test
Madison.com: Oregon poses difficult matchup for UW
Madison.com: Point guard Traevon Jackson's growth key down the stretch
Madison.com: Oregon's bench, unlike American's, has plenty in reserve
JSOnline: Badgers' Ben Brust refuses to call it quits
JSOnline: Badgers must overcome Ducks' speed, pressure
JSOnline: Ducks known for shooting skill
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: A load in the paint, Hayes keeps it light off the court
The Badgers were back at the BMO Harris Bradley Center on Friday, returning to the floor for practice as they prepare to take on seventh-seeded Oregon at 6:45 p.m. Saturday. Head coach Bo Ryan and his players also met with members of the media to look ahead at their matchup with the Ducks.
Press Conference Transcript
Perhaps most importantly, freshman Nigel Hayes was back behind the microphone to interview his teammates in the locker room, hitting them with all the pressing questions of the day.
Hayes Interviews - Take 2
Mike Lucas looks back on the Badgers' dominant win over American in the second round Thursday and how Wisconsin will face a major change of pace when it takes the floor Saturday:
Badger Rewind: UW's opening statement loud and clear
Around the Web
Madison.com: Ben Brust's hot shooting sparks offense
Madison.com: Badgers' low-stress opener good for their confidence
JSOnline: Nigel Hayes stands tall on defense vs. American
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: As career nears close, senior Brust rains down 3-pointers
See you again Saturday, Milwaukee. Behind 18 points from Traevon Jackson, 17 from Ben Brust and 11 more from Sam Dekker, the Badgers blasted American in a 75-35 wiin that has UW advancing to a second game in the NCAA tournament for the 11th time in 13 seasons under Bo Ryan. Wisconsin will face the winner of Oregon and BYU on Saturday.
Recap | Notes | Highlights | Quotes
In never looking back after putting the pedal down against American, the Badgers did exactly what a No. 2 seed is supposed to do, Mike Lucas writes:
Lucas' Last Word: Badgers leave no doubt with furious finish
Around the Web
USA Today: Bo Ryan just wants to give Wisconsin its money's worth
JSOnline: For Bo Ryan, Final Four won't be the same without his dad
JSOnline: Badgers' approach takes a turn for the looser
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Badgers' Hill and important understudy heading into NCAAs
With tipoff less than 24 hours away, the Badgers made their way to the BMO Harris Bradley Center for an open practice session and availability with members of the media. Not surprisingly, UW's practice session was well-attended as fans took advantage of their final look at the Badgers before they open tournament play Thursday against American.
Video: Badgers wrap practice with half-court shots
In addition to facing questions from the media, the Badgers were subjected to inquiries from one of their own when freshman Nigel Hayes took up the microphone:
Around the Web
Madison.com: Long-distance dedication finds Brust in sight of career 3-point mark
JSOnline: Badgers players plan to get back on the attack in NCAA tournament
JSOnline: Dekker grew up rooting for the NCAA underdogs
JSOnline: Nigel Hayes -- talented freshman and interviewer extraordinaire
JSOnline: Milwaukee NCAA regional brimming with rich history
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Badgers look to live up to 2 seed designation
SI.com: NCAA tournament team previews: Wisconsin
Following practice in Madison, the Badgers hit the road for the short 70-mile trip to Milwaukee Tuesday afternoon. For Wisconsin natives Josh Gasser and Sam Dekker, playing in their home state is particularly special. "My reaction when our name was announced in Milwaukee was genuine," Dekker said. "I was really excited. It's great to be able to play close to home and hopefully we can capitalize on the home crowd."
Around the Web
Associated Press: Wisconsin coaching tree in full bloom for Ryan
JSOnline: Gasser's long wait for UW's return to NCAA Tournament is finally over
Madison.com: American's Princeton-style offense offers intriguing matchup
The Selection Show was barely in the books before Zach Bohannon gave the Badgers a crash course in the Princeton offense utilized by second-round NCAA opponent American, drawing on his experience running the Princeton while playing at Air Force.
Mike Lucas: Badgers get jump-start on planning for American's attack
Wednesday will be a day for Badgers fans in Milwaukee, beginning at the BMO Harris Bradley Center and ending at the Milwaukee Theater:
Fan Schedule - Wednesday, March 19
Noon: American open practice (BMO Harris Bradley Center)
1:30 p.m.: Wisconsin open practice (BMO Harris Bradley Center)
6 p.m.: Wisconsin NCAA Tournament Pep Rally (Milwaukee Theater)
More Info: Milwaukee pep rally set for Badgers fans
Around the Web
Madison.com: Promising NCAA tournament path for Badgers
JSOnline: ESPN analysts like Badgers' chances for Final Four run
FoxSportsWisconsin.com: Badgers prepare for NCAA tourney matchup in Milwaukee
For the 16th-consecutive season, the Badgers will be dancing in March. Wisconsin was awarded the No. 2 seed in the West Region of the 2014 NCAA Tournament and will face No. 15 seed American in a second-round matchup Thursday at the BMO Harris Bradley Center in Milwaukee.
Badgers earn No. 2 seed, draw American in NCAA tournament
Video: Badgers talk NCAA selection at news conference
Transcript: Ryan, Brust, Gasser speak on Selection Sunday
Milwaukee pep rally set for Badgers fans
Around the Web
BTN: Bo Ryan talks Badgers' NCAA tourney bid
Madison.com: American awaits in NCAA opener on Thursday in Milwaukee
JSOnline: Big conference basketball coming to Milwaukee
JSOnline: No. 2 Wisconsin to play No. 15 American in Milwaukee
ESPN.com: Andy Katz's Selection Sunday winners and losers
ESPN.com: Checking out all 68 teams: Badgers a 'title threat'
