Madison, Wisconsin – In a disappointing early exit from the NCAA Tournament, the Wisconsin Badgers fell to the James Madison Dukes with a final score of 72-61. Head coach Greg Gard shared his thoughts after the game, reflecting on his team’s performance in the defeat. Gard commended James Madison’s impressive play, noting their defensive pressure that posed challenges for the Badgers throughout the game.
Despite a tough first half with turnovers and missed opportunities, Gard praised his team for their resilience and effort in battling back to close the gap to six points in the second half. The loss hit hard, especially for senior Tyler and the returning players who had hopes of building on their momentum from the Big Ten Tournament.
When discussing the impact of missed shots and turnovers, Gard acknowledged the game pressure and physicality that influenced their decision-making. He emphasized the importance of learning from mistakes and staying composed, especially in crucial moments of the game. While the loss was tough, Gard highlighted the valuable lessons his team can take away from this experience.
Looking ahead, Gard acknowledged the uncertainties of the off-season, with potential roster changes and decisions looming. He emphasized the tight bond within the team and their commitment to representing the program with pride and dedication. Despite the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of college basketball, Gard remained optimistic about the team’s core strengths and unity.
Reflecting on past tournament experiences, Gard avoided comparisons between different years, recognizing the unique journey and dynamics of each team. He emphasized the disappointment of falling short of their goals but acknowledged the nature of tournament play, where a single game can determine the outcome. As the team processes the loss and looks towards the future, Gard remains focused on guiding the players through the evolving landscape of college basketball.