After a six-year hiatus, the in-state matchup between Wisconsin and UW-Milwaukee returns tonight at the Kohl Center-and it’s shaping up to be a tough hill to climb for the Panthers.
Timing alone stacks the deck against UWM. The Panthers are coming off a Horizon League game just last night before making the short trip to Madison. Meanwhile, the Badgers are fresh off an eight-day holiday break, rested and ready to close out their non-conference slate before diving back into the Big Ten grind.
For Milwaukee, this isn’t unfamiliar territory-they’ve already taken on two power-conference opponents this season. But the results haven’t been kind: a 101-70 loss at Indiana and an 80-63 defeat at then-No.
11 Texas Tech. Add to that a 1-5 record away from home, and it’s clear the Panthers have struggled to find their footing outside of Milwaukee.
Wisconsin, on the other hand, has been rock-solid at home, especially in non-conference play. The Badgers have won 19 straight non-league games at the Kohl Center and haven’t lost to UWM since 1993.
This game marks their final tune-up before a marquee Big Ten showdown against No. 5 Purdue this weekend.
The Panthers do bring some intriguing talent to the floor. Toledo transfer Seth Hubbard leads the team in scoring, providing a steady veteran presence.
But it’s freshman Josh Dixon who’s turned heads lately. In his first two collegiate starts, Dixon exploded for 26 points per game in wins over South Dakota State and Cleveland State, earning Horizon League Player of the Week honors.
If Milwaukee is going to hang around tonight, Dixon’s offensive spark will be key.
Wisconsin has handled mid-major opponents with ease this season, going 5-0 in those matchups. Their most recent outing-a dominant 88-61 win over Central Michigan on Dec. 22-showcased their depth. The Badgers’ bench poured in 44 points, led by Austin Rapp’s 18, giving head coach Greg Gard even more confidence in his rotation heading into conference play.
Game Info: Wisconsin vs. UW-Milwaukee
- Tip-off: 6 p.m. CT
- TV: BTN
- Streaming: Fox One or Fox Sports apps; Fubo (free trial available)
- Radio: AM-1130 (WISN) and the statewide Badger Sports Network
- SiriusXM: Channel 384
- Announcers: Chris Vosters (TV play-by-play), Bruce Weber (TV analyst); Matt Lepay (radio play-by-play), Brian Butch (radio analyst)
What’s Next for Wisconsin?
The Badgers have a challenging stretch ahead as they jump back into Big Ten action:
- Jan. 3: vs. No.
5 Purdue, 7 p.m.
- Jan. 6: vs.
UCLA, 8 p.m.
- Jan. 10: at Michigan, noon or 1 p.m.
- Jan. 13: at Minnesota, 6 p.m.
Tonight’s game is more than just a rivalry renewal-it’s a measuring stick for both teams. For Milwaukee, it’s a chance to test themselves against a high-major opponent in a hostile environment.
For Wisconsin, it’s about staying sharp and locked in before the Big Ten gauntlet begins. Either way, expect a charged atmosphere in Madison when the ball goes up.