Saint Mary's vs. Wisconsin: 2019-20 key storylines for the game

Saint Mary’s vs. Wisconsin: 2019-20 key storylines for the game

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 22: The Wisconsin Badgers reacts against the Oregon Ducks in the second half during the first round of the 2019 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 22, 2019 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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MADISON, WISCONSIN – FEBRUARY 01: D’Mitrik Trice #0 of the Wisconsin Badgers reacts in the second half against the Maryland Terrapins at the Kohl Center on February 01, 2019 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

Wisconsin has a chip on its shoulder

Wisconsin will embrace an underdog mentality heading into this game with Saint Mary’s. This is the first time in a while that Wisconsin has not been heavily favored in a game against a mid-major. They will look to rise to the occasion and prove that they are better than the experts say they are.

Wisconsin is not ranked in the preseason AP and Coaches polls, however, they have received a few votes for the Coaches Poll. A game against 20th ranked Saint Mary’s provides them with a great opportunity to show that they are not only better than expected, but worthy of a national ranking.

Heading into this opening night matchup, I am certain that Wisconsin Head Coach, Greg Gard, has made has guys aware of what is being said about them around the college basketball world. They know they are not the favorite, and they know they are not getting the respect they feel like they deserve. This could definitely end up playing in their favor since a lot of teams play better when the odds seem to be against them.

I am excited to see how they respond and approach this game as an underdog.

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