Badgers Falter Late, Suffer 63-61 Loss To Purdue

Coming off a disappointing loss where Wisconsin should've won against Michigan, the same bitter taste is left in the Badgers mouths after a 63-61 defeat at home against Purdue.

The game was there for the taking, with Wisconsin keeping it close throughout and holding a lead as late as 1:45 remaining. They took a 57-56 lead on a Max Klesmit layup with 3:30 left, but failed to score a field goal for the remainder of the game.

Purdue got up by as many as three points the rest of the way and they fouled the Badgers in those moments, putting Wisconsin to the line and getting the ball back, forcing Wisconsin to foul again. Finally, a missed free throw by Purdue's Ethan Morton left the door open for Wisconsin with 4 seconds to go.

Max Klesmit took the inbound and drove as far up the court as he could, but excellent defense from Purdue forced a last second heave from just inside half court that fell way short of the basket as time expired.

It's a tough loss for Wisconsin who remains on the bubble of the NCAA Tournament and a win against Purdue would've gone a long way towards securing an at-large bid.

Klesmit led the way in scoring for Wisconsin with 19 points on 7-11 shooting. Chucky Hepburn, who was a game-time decision to play, ended up with 13 points.

Zach Edey led the way for Purdue with 17 points and 19 rebounds.

The final regular season game for Wisconsin is coming up on Sunday when they travel to Minnesota to face the Golden Gophers. After that, it's the Big Ten Tournament as their last chance to impress the selection committee.


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