Latest news: Wisconsin needs to shoot better in this category if they want to advance in the NCAA Tournament…
Wisconsin Must Improve Perimeter Shooting to Advance in NCAA Tournament
The Wisconsin Badgers have had a solid season, securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament, but if they want to make a deep run, they must improve in one key area—three-point shooting. While their defense and rebounding have been reliable, their inconsistency from beyond the arc has put them at risk against teams that can stretch the floor and score efficiently.
Three-Point Struggles Could Be Costly
Throughout the season, Wisconsin has shot around 32% from three-point range, ranking in the bottom half of the Big Ten in perimeter efficiency. In their recent losses, the Badgers have struggled to knock down open looks, allowing opponents to pack the paint and focus on limiting their inside scoring.
One of their biggest weaknesses has been catch-and-shoot opportunities, where they have failed to convert at a high enough rate to keep defenses honest. Players like Chucky Hepburn and Max Klesmit have had their moments, but overall, the team’s three-point percentage needs to rise for them to compete against elite offenses in the tournament.
Spacing the Floor is Key
If Wisconsin wants to advance, they must find a way to create and convert more open looks. This starts with ball movement and shot selection. The Badgers rely on their inside presence, but when teams collapse defensively, they must capitalize on kick-out threes.
A major factor in their perimeter shooting woes has been their pace of play. Wisconsin traditionally plays at a slow tempo, which limits their total shot attempts. If they can increase their ball movement and play with a bit more urgency, it could lead to better rhythm and cleaner looks from deep.
Can They Turn It Around?
The NCAA Tournament is all about matchups, and Wisconsin’s ability to hit outside shots will determine how far they go. If they can knock down threes at a respectable clip—around 35% or higher—they will have a much better chance of advancing past the early rounds. However, if they continue to struggle, they could find themselves in an early exit against a team that can exploit their weaknesses.
As the Badgers prepare for their next challenge, all eyes will be on their perimeter shooting. If they can heat up from deep, they could become a dangerous sleeper team in the tournament. If not, their season could end sooner than they hoped.
