Wisconsin Basketball Triumphs Over No. 9 Arizona Behind Tonje's 41

Wisconsin Basketball Upsets No. 9 Arizona

In an exhilarating matchup at the Kohl Center, the Wisconsin Badgers showcased their resilience and grit, defeating the No. 9 ranked Arizona Wildcats with a score of 103-88. The night was particularly significant, as the Badgers celebrated their legendary 2014 and 2015 Final Four teams, honoring Hall of Fame coach Bo Ryan while striving for victory in front of a boisterous sellout crowd of 16,838 fans.

Wisconsin's victory marked several records, most notably, it was the highest point total ever recorded for Wisconsin against a ranked opponent and the Badgers' largest margin of victory over a top-10 team since beating Michigan State by 18 points back in 2010.

John Tonje, a transfer from Missouri, delivered a performance to remember, scoring 41 points, just two shy of the school record set by Frank Kaminsky in 2013. Tonje's achievement was even more remarkable — he shot 21-of-22 from the free-throw line, setting a new program record for made free throws in a game. He played a crucial role in the game, drawing a game-high of 13 fouls against Arizona, showcasing his aggressive style of play.

Key Game Highlights

• Box Score: Wisconsin 103, No. 9 Arizona 88
• Free Throw Record: Badgers made 41 of 47 free throws, tying for the most in a game since January 1, 1955.
• Tonje's points take him to the top of the scoring list, surpassing former Badger stars such as Rick Olson and Jordan Taylor.

Wisconsin's Strategy and Adjustment

Wisconsin never trailed in the game, jumping to an 18-point lead early on. However, Arizona made a determined effort to close the gap, starting the second half with a 21-10 run. Despite this, the Badgers quickly regained control, responding with their own 21-9 run fueled by pivotal three-pointers from Tonje and Max Klesmit. This resilience demonstrates the depth of the Badgers' squad and their ability to adapt under pressure, especially with the team utilizing 11 players in the first half.

Coach Greg Gard commented, "It shows what they can be, what the potential of this group is."

Officiating Impact on Play

The game featured 63 fouls collectively called, with Wisconsin and Arizona combining for 87 free throw attempts. This trend may signal longer game durations, challenging both teams to maintain composure and tactical execution. As noted by Klesmit, the players had to focus on what they could control amidst the closely called game.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Wisconsin celebrates not only a significant win but also the potential of their roster, particularly with newcomers like Tonje making a substantial impact. As the team sits at 4-0 for the season, anticipation builds for their upcoming games. The Badgers will aim to keep this momentum going as they look forward to continuing their strong start in NCAA basketball this season.

In summary, Wisconsin's defense, combined with a high-octane offense led by Tonje, showcases their determination to make a significant mark this season, positioning them as a formidable contender in NCAA basketball.

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