MADISON, Wis. — The arenas tend to be larger for the NCAA Tournament. The media spotlight is brighter. Tensions rise with seasons on the line.
In the NCAAs, postseason experience can be just as important, if not more pivotal, than sheer talent.
Been there, done that.
“It’s important as long as you use it to your advantage,” Wisconsin coach Greg Gard said.
Of the 68 teams that qualified for the tournament, Michigan State has the most NCAA experience on its roster, with a cumulative total of 59 games among active players over the previous four seasons, according to STATS.