The #2 seeded Wisconsin Badgers (23-6) will take on Fairfield (21-11) in their first game of the NCAA Tournament tonight. After finishing third in the Big Ten, the Badgers earned an at-large bid and will now face the Stags in their round one matchup. Here's everything you need to know before Thursday's game.
How to Watch
The game, which starts at 7:00PM, can be streamed on ESPN+. You can also see it live at the UW-Field House in Madison.
When Do the Winners Play Next?
The winner of the Wisconsin-Fairfield game will face off against the winner of Georgia Tech-Tennessee on Friday at 7:00PM at the Field House.
Keys to the Game
For the second time in as many seasons, Wisconsin's Sarah Franklin was named the Big Ten Player of the Year. The 6-4 senior has been the key to the Badgers' domination, as she racked up 308 kills during conference play. Along with Franklin, four other Badgers, Anna Smrek, Carter Booth, Charlie Fuerbringer and Julia Orzol were all named to the All-Big Ten teams. Coach Kelly Sheffield will need a big night from Franklin if the Badgers want to reach a potential rematch against Nebraska.