Wisconsin Badgers vs Iowa Hawkeyes Picks and Predictions January 3rd 2025

Iowa Puts Efficient Offense Up Against Rested Wisconsin

The Iowa Hawkeyes and Wisconsin Badgers are set to reignite their Big Ten campaigns on Friday night in Madison, Wis., in a matchup featuring Iowa’s high-powered offense against Wisconsin’s well-rested roster. Both teams enter the game with momentum from recent nonconference wins and aspirations to improve their standing in the Big Ten.

Iowa’s Scorching Offense

Iowa (10-3, 1-1 Big Ten) has been an offensive juggernaut this season, averaging 87.8 points per game, including three outings surpassing 100 points. The Hawkeyes showcased their depth and tempo in a 112-70 demolition of New Hampshire on Monday.

Key Contributors

• Owen Freeman: Iowa’s leading scorer (17.1 PPG) and rebounder (6.5 RPG) is expected to return Friday after missing Monday’s game with a lower leg injury.
• Seydou Traore: Returning from an ankle injury, Traore delivered 14 points and six assists against New Hampshire, demonstrating his value as a facilitator in Iowa’s transition-heavy system.
• Cooper Koch: The freshman forward added 14 points in his second game back from a lengthy absence due to injury.

Iowa’s up-tempo approach thrives on unselfish play, with Traore’s ability to create for teammates being a critical element. Coach Fran McCaffery praised Traore’s court vision and impact, saying, “He’s incredibly unselfish (and) he’s got great vision.”

Wisconsin’s Rested and Balanced Approach

The Badgers (10-3, 0-2 Big Ten) come into the game fresh off a two-week holiday break following a 76-53 win over Detroit Mercy on Dec. 22. Wisconsin used the opportunity to rotate 12 players and build depth.

Core Lineup

Wisconsin’s starting five has been highly effective this season:

• John Tonje (19.2 PPG): The team’s leading scorer provides consistent offensive production.
• John Blackwell (14.2 PPG): A reliable secondary scoring option.
• Steven Crowl (8.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG): One of two 7-footers anchoring the paint for Wisconsin.

The Badgers’ depth is also bolstered by Kamari McGee, who averages 6.2 points off the bench and shoots a team-high 50% from beyond the arc.

Despite their balanced roster, Wisconsin’s Big Ten struggles have been evident, with close losses to Michigan and Illinois by a combined nine points in December.

Matchup to Watch: Iowa’s Offense vs. Wisconsin’s Defense

This game pits Iowa’s seventh-ranked offense (87.8 PPG) against a Wisconsin defense allowing just 62.4 points per game, one of the stingiest in the nation.

• Iowa’s Tempo: The Hawkeyes thrive on fast breaks and transition scoring. Freeman’s return adds a versatile post presence to complement their guard play.
• Wisconsin’s Size: With two 7-footers in Crowl and Nolan Winter, the Badgers have the interior size to disrupt Iowa’s inside-out game.

What’s at Stake

Both teams aim to solidify their footing in the Big Ten:

• A win for Iowa would continue their offensive momentum and boost their confidence heading into a tough conference schedule.
• Wisconsin looks to notch their first Big Ten victory and capitalize on home-court advantage to snap their early conference skid.

See who’s favored to take it all in NBA Championship Odds & Predictions!

Prediction

This game promises to be a battle of contrasting styles. If Iowa can dictate the tempo and exploit transition opportunities, they hold the edge. However, Wisconsin’s size and ability to control the pace could turn the tide in their favor.

Prediction: Iowa 79, Wisconsin 75