As the University of Wisconsin-Madison men’s basketball team prepares to take on two in-state programs this week — UW-Milwaukee Wednesday night and Marquette Saturday — the program relishes the chance to demonstrate its top dog status in the state.
But as opposing players look for the chance to showcase their talents on the state’s biggest stage, the Badgers are prepared for the challenge.
“This is their chance to show the coaches and the state maybe they made a mistake, that they’re good enough to be there,” UW-Madison freshman Alex Illikainen said. “So this is their shot. They’re coming in here with hometown pride and trying to kick your butt.