Starting Five: Western Michigan | Wisconsin Badgers

Wisconsin

9-2, 2-0 Big Ten

Western Michigan

4-8, 0-0 MAC

Game Coverage

Friday, Dec. 30  |  7 p.m.  |  Kohl Center  |  Madison, Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. – Following a break for final exams and the cancelation of Wisconsin’s December 23 game against Grambling State, the Badgers are scheduled to return to action after a 15-day recess to host Western Michigan on Friday.

Before the Badgers tip, here is the Starting Five:

1. B1G MOVES: The reigning Big Ten champions, Wisconsin began conference play with a pair of wins by beating No. 13 Maryland at home and earning a road win at Iowa. UW improved to 41-21 (.661) in Big Ten play over the last four seasons, owning the second-best mark in the conference.

2. RESUME BUILDING: Wisconsin is building one of the nation’s most impressive resumes this season, going 5-1 in Quadrant 1 and 2 games. Only UConn (7) and Alabama (6) have more Quad 1/2 wins so far this season. UW is also tied for the nation’s lead with six wins over Ken Pomeroy Top-100 teams (through games played Dec. 18).

3. 125TH ANNIVERSARY: This year marks the 125th season of Wisconsin men’s basketball, and all year long UW will be celebrating the history of one of the Big Ten’s most successful programs. On Friday, UW welcomes back Trevon Hughes (2007-10) as honorary captain.

4. ROAD WARRIORS: Last season, Wisconsin was 13-6 away from home, including an impressive 9-2 in true road games. So far this year, the Badgers are 5-1 away from home. In fact, dating back to last season UW has won each of its last six road games.

5. SWEAT IT OUT: The Badgers have played seven games decided by five points or less this season (including three overtime contests), going 5-2 in those games. Dating back to last season, UW is now 17-5 in games decided by five points or fewer.