In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Wisconsin Badgers staged a remarkable comeback to edge past the Harvard Crimson Tide, 64-61, and advance in the WBIT. It was a game that showcased resilience, grit, and a touch of magic in the final moments of regulation.
With just 46 seconds left on the clock, the Badgers found themselves trailing 54-46, having gone cold for nearly four minutes. But this team wasn't ready to pack it in.
Kyrah Daniels sparked the rally with a clutch three-pointer, slicing the lead to five. Harvard responded with a pair of free throws, but Daniels wasn't done yet-she nailed another from downtown, bringing the gap down to four with 29 seconds remaining.
The Badgers' defense then took center stage. Lacy Steele's tenacious play forced a crucial turnover, leading to a Dorja Zaja layup that put Wisconsin within striking distance at 56-54.
Another defensive gem came from Ronnie Porter, whose steal set up the Badgers for a potential game-winning or tying play. Coach Robin Pingeton wisely called a timeout with 15 seconds to go, setting the stage for Destiny Howell to deliver a game-tying layup.
A missed shot by Harvard sent the game into overtime.
In the extra period, points were at a premium. Harvard managed a slim 61-60 lead after Saniyah Glenn split a pair at the line with 1:53 left.
But the Badgers were not to be denied. Dorja Zaja struck again with a layup, giving Wisconsin a 62-61 edge with just over a minute to play.
From there, the Badgers' defense clamped down, ensuring Harvard wouldn't score again. A couple of key stops sealed the deal, and Wisconsin emerged victorious, 64-61, earning their spot in the WBIT Semifinals.
Gift Uchenna was a standout performer, leading the Badgers with 17 points on an efficient 8-of-13 shooting. Kyrah Daniels contributed 15 points, while Destiny Howell added 13, each playing pivotal roles in the comeback.
Next up for Wisconsin is a semifinal clash against Columbia, set for Monday at 1:30 p.m. at the Charles Koch Arena in Wichita, Kansas. Meanwhile, the other side of the bracket features a showdown between Kansas and BYU, with the winners set to meet in the championship game on Wednesday. The Badgers' thrilling victory sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament.