Marquette and Wisconsin are set to renew their historic I-94 rivalry this afternoon. The two teams separated by just 79 miles meet for the 132nd time in a series dating back to 1917. Wisconsin holds a commanding 71-60 advantage in the all-time series and is favored by 10.5 points in today’s matchup at the Kohl Center in Madison.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Wisconsin enters at 6-2 with undefeated home record at Kohl Center
- Marquette comes in at 5-4 seeking first win against ranked conference opponent
- Game tips at 1 p.m. CT on FS1 and is already sold out at venue
- Wisconsin’s John Blackwell posted 26 points and 11 rebounds in last game
Historic I-94 Rivalry Reaches 132nd Meeting
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The I-94 rivalry represents one of college basketball’s most storied matchups. Located just 79 miles apart on Interstate 94, these in-state foes have faced off since 1917 when Wisconsin won the inaugural contest 15-14 on a controversial free throw. The rivalry intensified in the late 1960s and 1970s when Marquette dominated, winning 15 straight meetings before Wisconsin reclaimed control.
Wisconsin leads the series 71-60 and has won three of the last four meetings. The Badgers have also won each of the last three contests in Madison, showcasing dominance at home against their rivals. Coach Greg Gard holds a strong 5-4 record against Marquette during his tenure at Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Badgers Dominating at Home This Season
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The Badgers (6-2) enter this matchup undefeated at the Kohl Center this season. Wisconsin’s offense has been particularly effective, ranking second among high-major teams in three-point rate. The team averages 11.0 three-pointers made per game, ranking second in the Big Ten and 22nd nationally. Wisconsin won all five games when hitting double-digit three-pointers.
Leading the way is junior John Blackwell, who just recorded his first double-double of the season with 26 points and 11 rebounds against Northwestern. Nick Boyd contributed 20 points in that victory. Both players just reached major milestones—Blackwell became the 51st player in program history to score 1,000 career points, while senior Andrew Rohde also reached the 1,000-point mark this week.
| Team | Record | Leading Scorer | Home/Away |
| Wisconsin | 6-2 | John Blackwell (26 ppg recent) | Home (Kohl Center) |
| Marquette | 5-4 | Chase Ross (20.3 ppg) | Away |
Marquette Looking for Statement Victory Against Ranked Opponent
Marquette (5-4) enters today looking to break through against major conference competition. The Golden Eagles have suffered losses to three power conference opponents—Oklahoma, Indiana, and Maryland—as well as A-10 contender Dayton. Senior Chase Ross leads the team at 20.3 points per game.
Marquette is seeking its first major conference win after struggling against elite competition. Guard Nigel James Jr. scored 21 points in an overtime victory against Valparaiso just before this contest. The Golden Eagles need consistency and road performance to make an impact in conference play this season.
Special Uniforms Debut as Wisconsin Honors Players’ Input
In partnership with Under Armour, Wisconsin debuts new alternate ‘By the Players’ uniforms for the 2025-26 campaign. This marks the sixth edition allowing players to collaborate directly with Under Armour on design. John Blackwell and Nolan Winter were especially key in this year’s design process.
The uniforms represent Wisconsin’s modern approach to team identity. Players have input into the visual elements that represent them on the court. The new look will be a prominent feature during this important I-94 rivalry game.
Will Marquette Break Through Against Wisconsin’s Home Dominance Today?
Wisconsin holds all the advantages heading into this afternoon’s contest. The Badgers remain undefeated at home, control the all-time series, and feature one of the nation’s most efficient offenses from three-point range. Marquette must establish early ball movement and defensive intensity to compete against the ranked Badgers.
The sold-out crowd at the Kohl Center will create an intimidating atmosphere for the visiting Golden Eagles. With Wisconsin’s home dominance in the series and superior record, can Marquette find the offensive rhythm needed to earn a crucial non-conference victory? Tipoff comes at 1 p.m. CT on FS1.
“The Badgers are starting to click. But, can they be more consistent?”
— Analysis, Bucky’s 5th Quarter
Sources
- Wisconsin Badgers Official Athletics – Game preview and roster information
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – Rivalry history and matchup analysis
- ESPN – Game preview and team statistics
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.