Wisconsin basketball HC Greg Gard channels inner JJ Watt after Michigan heartbreaker

Badgers coach responds to crushing Big Ten Tournament loss with motivational quote

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After a close loss to Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals, Wisconsin basketball coach Greg Gard channeled NFL star JJ Watt with a motivational quote about his team earning respect despite the defeat. The Badgers put up a strong fight against the top-seeded Wolverines, but ultimately came up short at the buzzer. However, Gard believes his team has built momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament with their recent run of success.

Why it matters

Wisconsin's loss to Michigan was a tough one, but Gard's response shows the resilience and confidence of a team that has exceeded expectations this season. The Badgers' strong play down the stretch has them firmly in the NCAA Tournament field, setting them up for a potential deep run despite the heartbreaking Big Ten semifinal defeat.

The details

Wisconsin pushed Michigan to the brink, with Nick Boyd scoring at will and Austin Rapp knocking down six 3-pointers in the second half. However, Yaxel Lendeborg hit a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Wolverines a 68-65 victory. Despite the loss, Gard believes his team has earned the respect of the Big Ten and the country with their recent play.

  • Wisconsin defeated Illinois 72-69 in overtime in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals on March 11, 2026.
  • Wisconsin lost to Michigan 68-65 in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals on March 14, 2026.

The players

Greg Gard

The head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers men's basketball team.

Nick Boyd

A Wisconsin basketball player who scored at will against Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals.

Austin Rapp

A Wisconsin basketball player who knocked down six 3-pointers in the second half against Michigan.

Yaxel Lendeborg

A Michigan basketball player who hit the game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer to defeat Wisconsin.

JJ Watt

A former NFL defensive end known for his motivational quotes and leadership.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You can look it up, but rent's due every day,”

— Greg Gard, Wisconsin basketball head coach

What’s next

Wisconsin will await its NCAA Tournament seeding and matchup on Selection Sunday.

The takeaway

Despite the heartbreaking loss to Michigan, Wisconsin has built significant momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament with their strong play in the Big Ten Tournament. Coach Gard's motivational quote shows the resilience and confidence of a team that has exceeded expectations and earned the respect of the conference and the country.