Badgers Dominate: Historic win as Wisconsin Women's Basketball tops Rutgers
By Chad Winch
In a thrilling showdown at the Kohl Center, the Wisconsin women's basketball team clinched a commanding victory over Rutgers, sealing a resounding 73-62 win on Saturday, Jan. 27. However, the significance of this triumph extended beyond the final score, as the Badgers remarkably held Rutgers to a mere three points in the first quarter, marking one of the stingiest defensive displays this season.
This defensive prowess was not unprecedented, as it tied for the second-fewest points the Badgers have ever conceded in a single quarter. The only time they allowed fewer points was a scant two points against Rutgers on Feb. 18, 2017, making this latest feat all the more remarkable.
Leading the charge for the Badgers was the indomitable Serah Williams, whose impact on both ends of the court was nothing short of sensational. Williams, a defensive stalwart, further solidified her place in the program's record books by climbing to seventh in all-time blocks, amassing an impressive total of 111 rejections throughout her career. Moreover, she showcased her versatility by notching her ninth double-double of the season, a feat she accomplished for the sixth consecutive game. This achievement saw her join elite company, as she tied Imani Lewis for third all-time in consecutive games with a double-double, underscoring her remarkable consistency and reliability.
Williams' offensive prowess was equally impressive, as she erupted for a staggering 31 points, matching her career high previously set against Michigan State on Jan. 11, 2023. Her offensive outburst provided the Badgers with a much-needed offensive spark and underscored her ability to dominate proceedings on both ends of the floor. Meanwhile, Ronnie Porter turned heads with a stellar performance of her own, dishing out a career-high nine assists to propel the Badgers' offense to new heights.
From start to finish, the Badgers asserted their dominance over Rutgers, never once relinquishing the lead and surging to victory by as many as 19 points. This comprehensive triumph not only showcased the team's offensive firepower but also highlighted their defensive tenacity and unyielding spirit. As they continue to march forward in pursuit of further success, the Badgers will undoubtedly draw inspiration from this stellar defensive outing as March is starting to close in.