Big Ten Basketball: 2018-19 key storylines for Michigan at Wisconsin

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ANN ARBOR, MI – DECEMBER 22: Ignas Brazdeikis #13 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a three point shot during the second half of the game against the Air Force Falcons at Crisler Center on December 22, 2018 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan defeated Air Force 71-50. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

3. Will either team score 60 points?

If you like defensive, half-court battles, this game is for you.

KenPom ranks Michigan at No. 3 and Wisconsin at No. 14 in defensive efficiency. Michigan allows only 56.6 points per game, the third-lowest figure in the country; Wisconsin’s 63.6 points allowed per game is the 19th best in the nation. Both teams rank outside the top-140 nationally in points per game as well. In terms of offensive efficiencies, however, the pair are both among the top-40.

These low points per game and even lower points allowed per game figures are a product of the teams’ half-court style of play. The Wolverines have the 321st fastest pace of play; the Badgers have the 15th slowest pace of play in the country and third-lowest among high-major programs.

If any game this season were to feature two teams scoring under 50 points, it would probably be this one. I would truly not be surprised if neither team reached 60 points.

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Look for Saturday’s contest to be one of the most exciting conference matchups college basketball has seen this season, as the slow styles of play will create a competitive and thrilling contest for all 40 minutes.

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