Wisconsin Loss Significant for Spartans' Big Ten Title Hopes

Michigan State gained a huge advantage in the Big Ten standings after Wisconsin's upset loss to Oregon.

Feb 21, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; The Michigan State bench reacts during the second half against the Michigan Wolverines at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images | Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images

On Saturday, unranked Oregon pulled off a thrilling 77-73 overtime victory over the 11th-ranked Wisconsin Badgers, sending shockwaves through college basketball.

The Ducks, who entered the matchup 8-8 in conference, displayed impressive resilience and poise, particularly in the overtime period. Oregon’s victory was powered by a combination of strong individual performances and team defense, as they weathered a late push by Wisconsin to secure the upset.

Oregon senior center Nate Bittle, who had been relatively quiet for most of the season, came alive in the game and delivered a clutch performance when the game was on the line. The Ducks' offense, which had struggled earlier in the game, found rhythm in the final minutes of regulation and overtime. Their defense was equally impressive, stifling Wisconsin’s scoring in crucial moments, including a big stop late in the extra period that helped them hold onto the lead.

This upset is significant not just for Oregon but for Michigan State, which recently defeated Michigan and is now in a prime position to make a run at the Big Ten title. With Wisconsin’s loss, the Badgers drop in the rankings and take a step back in their pursuit of a strong seed in the conference, while the Spartans stand to benefit from the reshuffling at the top of the standings.

Michigan State is now firmly in the mix for the Big Ten title and has a half-game lead on the Wolverines. With Wisconsin faltering, the Spartans find themselves in a good spot to capitalize on their own momentum, securing the top spot in the conference.

The implications of this game stretch beyond just rankings. The Big Ten race is extremely tight, with several teams jockeying for position as the regular season winds down. A strong finish for Michigan State, bolstered by Wisconsin’s loss, would be a statement for the Spartans as they look to secure a high seed in the NCAA tournament.

A Big Ten title would also strengthen their case as one of the elite teams in college basketball.

For Oregon, the win is a confidence booster, showcasing its ability to rise to the occasion against top competition. As for Wisconsin, the loss stings, especially in a season where the Badgers were looking to make a deep tournament run. But for Michigan State, the timing of this result couldn’t have been better, as it puts it in a prime position to control its destiny in the Big Ten standings.

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