Wisconsin Badgers vs Detroit Mercy Titans Picks and Predictions December 22nd 2024

Wisconsin Faces Detroit Mercy After Snapping Losing Streak

Wisconsin hosts Detroit Mercy on Sunday, seeking to build momentum after ending a three-game skid, while the Titans aim to break a long drought against Big Ten opponents.

Wisconsin Looking to Maintain Winning Form

The Wisconsin Badgers (9-3) return to Madison feeling optimistic after snapping a three-game losing streak with an 83-74 victory over Butler on Dec. 14. The win showcased Wisconsin’s balanced offensive attack, with four players averaging double figures in scoring.

• John Tonje leads the team with 20.0 points per game, showing consistency and efficiency in his offensive game.
• John Blackwell (14.3 ppg), Max Klesmit (12.2 ppg), and Nolan Winter (10.6 ppg) provide reliable scoring depth.

Head coach Greg Gard appreciates the improvement but emphasizes the importance of defensive discipline and ball movement as they approach their final nonconference games.

“We saw good offensive execution against Butler,” Gard said. “Now it’s about maintaining that effort on both ends of the court.”

Detroit Mercy’s Familiar Face

Detroit Mercy (5-8) enters Sunday’s matchup under the leadership of first-year head coach Mark Montgomery, a longtime Michigan State assistant. Montgomery’s familiarity with Wisconsin from his Big Ten tenure adds intrigue to this rare matchup.

Montgomery’s influence has introduced some Michigan State-like tendencies to the Titans’ game, though the team has also integrated unique defensive looks, including three-quarters-court pressure and zone defenses.

“I recognize some patterns offensively,” Gard said of Detroit Mercy’s approach under Montgomery. “But they’re mixing in things that make them unique.”

Titans Facing Challenges and Growing Pains

The Titans are coming off a 73-60 loss to Northern Kentucky, their third straight defeat. Injuries have forced Montgomery to rely on a youthful roster, including six freshmen who are adjusting to the collegiate game.

• Orlando Lovejoy leads the team in scoring with 13.7 points per game, while Mak Manciel adds 13.4.
• Freshmen Grant Gondrezick II and Nate Johnson scored 12 and 11 points, respectively, in the loss to Northern Kentucky.

Montgomery sees progress in his young roster but acknowledges the need for further growth.

“They’re giving me everything they can,” Montgomery said. “We just need a little bit more.”

The Titans have an 18-game losing streak against Big Ten opponents, with their last win coming in 1997 against Michigan State.

Who will claim the title? Find out in College Basketball Championship Odds!

Key Matchup

Wisconsin’s veteran lineup faces a youthful Detroit Mercy squad trying to find its footing. The Badgers’ balanced scoring and home-court advantage could prove decisive. However, Detroit Mercy’s unique defensive schemes and Montgomery’s familiarity with Wisconsin add a layer of unpredictability.

For Wisconsin, controlling the tempo and minimizing turnovers will be crucial. For Detroit Mercy, slowing down John Tonje and finding consistent offensive contributions beyond Lovejoy and Manciel will be key to staying competitive.