Blackwell's Career Night Lifts No. 23 Wisconsin Past Huskies in Big Ten Tournament Thriller
John Blackwell went absolutely nuclear—34 points, six 3-pointers, and the clutch gene fully activated—as No. 23 Wisconsin survived a furious Washington comeback to advance deeper into the Big Ten Tournament. The final score tells the story of a nail-biter: Wisconsin 85, Washington 82, played Thursday, March 12 at the United Center in Chicago.
The Badgers (23-9, 14-6 Big Ten) looked like they were running away with this third-round matchup early, jumping out to an 18-point lead at one point. But the Huskies (16-17, 7-13 Big Ten) refused to go quietly into the tournament night. Washington clawed back and nearly pulled off the upset, but Wisconsin's experience and Blackwell's scoring touch proved too much down the stretch.
Blackwell Takes Over
This was Blackwell's moment. The Wisconsin guard connected on 14 of 24 field goal attempts and knocked down six deep balls to reach that career-high 34 points. He was the clear difference-maker when the Huskies mounted their fourth-quarter surge. Nick Boyd added 9 points for the Badgers, who shot 45% from the field (31-69) and hit a scorching 38% from three (15-39). Wisconsin also went a perfect 100% from the free throw line on 8-8.
For Washington, Hannes Steinbach led the way with 25 points on 10-of-19 shooting and grabbed 16 total rebounds (6 offensive). He also made 4 of 6 free throws. The Huskies' shooting numbers were slightly worse across the board: 44% from the field (30-68), 30% from three (7-23), and 75% from the line (15-20). More importantly, Washington turned the ball over 8 times compared to Wisconsin's 6.
Defensive Intensity Decided It
Wisconsin controlled the glass, out-rebounding the Huskies 45-29, with Blackwell pulling down 7 boards and 3 offensive rebounds. That rebound advantage—especially on the offensive end—kept possessions alive and wore down Washington's defense when it mattered most. The Badgers never trailed and held Washington at bay in the final minutes despite the Huskies' desperate push.
Wisconsin advances to the Big Ten quarterfinals. For the Huskies, it's another tournament exit that'll sting on the way home.
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This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.