In advance of his team's challenging match-up versus the Badgers tonight, Indiana head coach Tom Crean is tweeting nice things about Bo Ryan's squad. Bucky's 5th Quarter is labeling the game a "must-win" for Wisconsin. While it's true that some fans of bubble teams may take exception to that notion, a loss to the Hoosiers would deal quite a dent to Wisconsin's resume.
Meanwhile, the Crimson Quarry says goodbye to Jeremiah Rivers while praising the Georgetown transfer's hustle and defense.
Fans of IU rival Illinois are busy themselves sending off a trio of senior starters. Today, Mike Davis was profiled by Hail to the Orange. Davis' outstanding sophomore season sent expectations for the athletic forward through the roof, and though he never turned into "a poor-man's Kevin Durant," he will still be remembered fondly by Illini fans.
How about a list of bars around Conseco Fieldhouse for those attending the Big Ten Tournament in Indianapolis? Thanks Hammer and Rails!
Minnesota is lucky they are still allowed in the Big Ten tourney after dropping 8 of their last 9. Also, Trevor Mbakwe is now thinking he may not be back for his senior year. Pioneer Press reporter Marcus Fuller describes the forward's NBA prospects.
"I've heard from scouts that Mbakwe could be at best a mid- to-high second-round pick, not a first-rounder. A strong last couple of games and postseason run would surely help. But Mbakwe would likely have to grow two inches and develop a jump shot in time for the NBA teams to evaluate him as a higher pick than that."
In that case, maybe one more year with Tubby would help.
Oh boy. When was the last time so much was riding on a Michigan vs. MSU basketball game? Coach Izzo is loving the bubble life, saying that fighting to get into the tourney is exciting "in a sick sort of way."
All righty then! It should be an exhilarating final Big Ten regular season weekend. But first, make sure to enjoy Wisconsin at Indiana tonight at 9 EST on ESPN.