Nick Boyd Leads Wisconsin to Victory Over No. 10 Michigan State: 3 Key Takeaways

In a stunning display of dominance, the Wisconsin Badgers defeated the No. 10-ranked Michigan State Spartans 92-71 on February 13 at the Kohl Center. This victory marks Wisconsin’s third achievement against a top-10 team in the 2025-26 season, more than any other program in the country. The Badgers showed incredible skill both offensively and defensively, leading the game for over 39 minutes without trailing at any point.

Nick Boyd’s Stellar Performance

Guard Nick Boyd delivered a sensational performance, scoring a team-high 29 points on 10-of-17 shooting. His impressive play included five 3-pointers, tying his season-high. Boyd’s scoring ability has been a consistent element for Wisconsin, averaging 20.6 points per game before this matchup.

Head Coach Greg Gard praised Boyd, highlighting his aggressive play and ability to make good decisions on the court. Boyd’s confidence was evident as he made shots under various circumstances, including a remarkable deep 3-pointer. His teammate, John Blackwell, affectionately referred to one of his long-range shots as coming from “State Street.”

Defensive Strength Against the Spartans

While Wisconsin has a reputation for its offensive prowess, the team’s defense was crucial in this victory over Michigan State. The Badgers limited the Spartans to a mere 36% shooting from the field and 30% from beyond the arc. The Spartans fell scoreless for over five minutes during the first half, allowing Wisconsin to build a significant lead.

Jeremy Fears Jr., Michigan State’s leading scorer, struggled, managing only 14 points on 3-of-12 shooting. Coach Gard emphasized the need for physical and mental toughness, which his players exhibited effectively throughout the match.

Three-Point Shooting and Offensive Efficiency

Wisconsin’s ability to convert from beyond the arc was instrumental in their victory. The Badgers made 15 of 35 3-pointers, translating to an impressive 43% shooting rate. This performance reflects their success rate, as they boast a 9-1 record this season when shooting 40% or better from long range.

• First half: 10 of 17 three-point attempts.
• Key players contributing: Boyd (5), Blackwell, Braeden Carrington, and Andrew Rohde (multiple 3-pointers).
• Overall offensive effectiveness: 1.438 points per possession.

This game also highlighted Wisconsin’s advantage in scoring in the paint, where they outperformed the Spartans 28-14, and their edge in second-chance points at 19-8. Wisconsin’s impressive rebounding against one of the nation’s top defensive teams was a testament to their relentless energy on both ends of the floor.

In summary, the Badgers’ victory over the Spartans not only showcased their offensive firepower but also their formidable defense. As they continue through the season, performances like these will be critical as they aim for further success.