Maryland Terrapins vs Wisconsin Badgers Picks and Predictions January 29th 2025

No. 17 Wisconsin vs. Maryland: A Clash of Big Ten Titans on the Rise

With momentum on their side, the No. 17 Wisconsin Badgers (16-4, 6-3 Big Ten) are set to face one of the most challenging stretches of their schedule: four of their next five games will be on the road. First up is a crucial matchup against the Maryland Terrapins (16-5, 6-4 Big Ten) on Wednesday night in College Park, Maryland.

Despite the daunting nature of this road-heavy schedule, Wisconsin head coach Greg Gard remains unfazed, downplaying the difficulties of playing away from home.

“I never make a big deal, home or road,” Gard said. “If you zero in on what you’re supposed to be doing, what happens outside the lines doesn’t matter. Whether it’s crowd noise for you or against you, you still have to go play.”

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Wisconsin’s Winning Formula: Shooting and Depth

The Badgers are riding a hot streak, winning eight of their last nine games. Their only stumble came in a nail-biter against UCLA, an 85-83 loss on January 21. They rebounded quickly, dominating Nebraska 83-55 just days later.

A large part of Wisconsin’s success comes from their precision shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. Over their last two games, the Badgers have shot an impressive 47.8% from 3-point range, hitting 32 of 67 attempts.

Leading this offensive surge are John Tonje and John Blackwell, Wisconsin’s top scorers. Tonje, who averages 18 points per game, has been scorching hot, hitting 11 of his last 18 attempts (61.1%) from deep. Blackwell, averaging 16.3 points per game, isn’t far behind, shooting 50% (7-for-14) in the same span.

However, what sets Wisconsin apart is their depth. All nine of their rotation players, each averaging double-digit minutes, have made at least eight 3-pointers this season. Gard attributes their success to a combination of system design and individual skill.

“It’s part system, part players,” Gard explained. “We’ve recruited guys who can shoot and built a style that plays to their strengths.”

Maryland’s Home Dominance and Recent Breakthroughs

While Wisconsin has been thriving, Maryland enters this game with momentum of its own. After a stretch of tough losses in Big Ten play—none by more than six points—the Terrapins bounced back with two pivotal road wins last week.

Their 91-70 upset of then-No. 17 Illinois showcased the dominance of their frontcourt. Julian Reese erupted for 27 points and 17 rebounds, while freshman phenom Derik Queen added 25 points.

The Terrapins followed that with a thrilling 79-78 victory at Indiana, sealed by Rodney Rice’s game-winning 3-pointer with seven seconds left. This time, Maryland’s backcourt led the charge. Rice scored 23 points, Ja’Kobi Gillespie contributed 18 points and nine assists, and Selton Miguel added 15 points. The trio combined to shoot 52.2% from deep, making 12 of 23 attempts.

Maryland head coach Kevin Willard credits his team’s recent success to a season-long process of growth and adaptation.

“We’ve been on a really good learning process this whole year,” Willard said. “The last two weeks, our focus has been on getting better and learning how to win on the road.”

The Terrapins have been formidable at home, boasting a 4-0 record against Big Ten opponents in College Park this season. Their strong defensive play and balanced scoring make them a tough opponent, especially in front of their home crowd.

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The Matchup: Depth vs. Versatility

Wednesday’s game promises to be a clash of strengths. Wisconsin’s disciplined, perimeter-oriented offense will be tested against Maryland’s physicality and versatility on both ends of the court.

The Badgers’ 3-point shooting has been their calling card, ranking No. 7 nationally in offensive efficiency (KenPom.com). However, Maryland’s recent performances highlight their ability to adapt, with the frontcourt and backcourt taking turns dominating games.

Key matchups to watch include Wisconsin’s big men against Maryland’s Reese and Queen, as well as the battle of backcourts between Rice, Gillespie, and Miguel versus Wisconsin’s Tonje and Blackwell.

Historical Context and Stakes

Wisconsin has a slight historical edge, leading the all-time series 11-6 and winning two of the last three meetings in College Park. However, Maryland’s unbeaten home record in Big Ten play this season could make this a defining moment in the rivalry.

Gard remains confident in his team’s ability to perform, regardless of location.

“We’re flying around on a private, chartered plane. We’ll have some nice box meals when we fly to Maryland, stay in a good hotel. We’re playing basketball. There’s much more difficult things in life you can be doing,” Gard joked.

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Prediction and Outlook

With both teams surging at this point in the season, the game could come down to execution in the final minutes. Maryland’s home-court advantage and newfound confidence will make them a tough opponent, but Wisconsin’s consistent shooting and depth might give them the edge.

One thing is certain: fans can expect a tightly contested, high-energy game as these two Big Ten contenders face off.