The Wisconsin Badgers were unable to keep positive momentum going coming off their win over Michigan, suffering a heartbreaking 58-57 loss at home against Rutgers. They're still seeking their first back-to-back wins since January 3rd when they defeated Minnesota in the first game of their big stretch of Big Ten play.
This game was an offensive struggle for both teams, with Rutgers and Wisconsin dealing with lengthy scoring droughts in the second half. Wisconsin was able to take a late lead though, up 57-54 but Rutgers was able to get some high percentage looks in the paint and sneak ahead 58-57.
It came down to the final possession once again for Wisconsin needing to make a shot with the clock expiring to get the win. Greg Gard called a timeout with 11 seconds left to draw up the final play and Wisconsin got up some shots, but they just didn't fall. Essegian took a running jumper, then Klesmit drove to the paint but couldn't get a good look, and just in time for a final shot the ball found Essegian for a 3, but it was partially blocked and time expired.
Jordan Davis came off the bench and had a big game, scoring 14 points with 4 rebounds. Max Klesmit added 11 points while Steven Crowl had 8 and Tyler Wahl scored 7.
It's a bad break for a Wisconsin team that's still on the outside looking in for the NCAA Tournament. They're already working on a thin margin for error at this point in the season and they're running out of games left in the season.
Next up for Wisconsin is another home game as they take on the Iowa Hawkeyes on Wednesday.