This is a win that's going to give Wisconsin and Greg Gard a TON of confidence with the Big Ten Tournament coming soon. That's right, the Badgers stunned No. 15 Purdue on Saturday, with standout John Blackwell leading the way with 25 points.
Nick Boyd interview after Wisconsin stunned Purdue just made the win even better
Oh, and Nick Boyd was also great, especially in the second half. On the day, Boyd finished with 23 points, catching fire when the Badgers needed him the most. Right after the win, Blackwell was all smiles and he of course hyped up his teammate. Matter of fact, Blackwell didn't hesitate in saying he strongly believes him and Boyd are the best backcourt in college hoops - period.
#Badgers guard John Blackwell on the duo of him and fifth-year guard Nick Boyd: "I'm not the type of guy to say it, but honestly, look across the board — I think we're the best backcourt in the country."
— Michael McCleary (@MikeJMcCleary) March 8, 2026
John Blackwell and Wisconsin stunned Purdue with a head-turning upset
You've got to love the confidence from Blackwell there. With how humble he is, he's never one to talk smack or try and be cocky. Instead, he plays the game the right way and he also understands just how special his bond is on the hardwood with Boyd.
Those two were brilliant against Purdue and they were the straw that stirs the drink in one of the biggest wins of the campaign for the Badgers. Now, UW will get back to the practice floor and get ready for the Big Ten tourney and then the NCAA Tournament.
The good news for Wisconsin is that if Maryland can take care of business on Sunday against Illinois, the Badgers will receive a triple-bye for the Big Ten Tournament. Regardless of if that happens or not, this team is built to make a ton of noise in March.
In order for Wisconsin to go on a deep NCAA Tournament run too, there's no question that Blackwell and Boyd are going to have to be at their best, while Nolan Winter will need to be close to 100 percent too. Blackwell knows the potential this team has and he's going to be ready to back up what he said about him and Boyd as well.