Graduate student John Tonje finished with 22 points, his fourth game with at least 20 points, to lead Wisconsin. The 6-foot-4 guard hit five of 12 shots, including three of six from three-point range, and nine of 10 from the free throw line.

Wisconsin needed someone to step up after losing all five starters from a year ago and John Tonje has been that guy early in the season.

The score would seesaw until veteran guard Kamari McGee, who scored 10 points off the bench, canned a three-pointer to push Wisconsin ahead 65-62. Tonje would follow with a layup on the ensuing possession, and the Badgers did not relinquish their lead for the remainder of the game.