Oregon Defeats Wisconsin in Big Ten Matchup

Ducks score 55 points in the second half to overcome Badgers

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Oregon's men's basketball team defeated Wisconsin 85-71 in a Big Ten conference game on Wednesday night in Eugene, Oregon. The Ducks outscored the Badgers 55-38 in the second half, led by strong performances from Nate Bittle, Takai Simpkins, and Kwame Evans Jr. Wisconsin's John Blackwell scored a team-high 22 points, but the Badgers struggled overall, attempting a program-record 45 3-point shots.

Why it matters

This win is an important conference victory for Oregon, who has struggled this season with an 11-17 overall record. The Ducks were able to overcome a strong first-half performance by Wisconsin, who entered the game with a 19-9 record. The game highlights Oregon's ability to make adjustments and capitalize on Wisconsin's weaknesses in the second half.

The details

Oregon shot 17-for-24 from the field in the second half, scoring 55 points. The Ducks forced 24 points off Wisconsin turnovers and had 8 blocked shots and 8 steals. Wisconsin set a program record by attempting 45 3-point shots, with John Blackwell hitting 6 of the team's 14 3-pointers. However, the Badgers' leading scorer Nick Boyd was held to 11 points, well below his season average.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, February 26, 2026 in Eugene, Oregon.

The players

Nate Bittle

Oregon player who scored 20 points with 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Takai Simpkins

Oregon player who scored 17 points.

Kwame Evans Jr.

Oregon player who scored 16 points.

John Blackwell

Wisconsin player who scored a team-high 22 points, hitting 6 of the team's 14 3-pointers.

Nick Boyd

Wisconsin player who was held to 11 points, well below his season average.

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The takeaway

Oregon's ability to make adjustments and capitalize on Wisconsin's weaknesses in the second half was the key to their victory. The Ducks' strong defensive performance, including forcing turnovers and blocking shots, helped them overcome the Badgers' high-powered offense and 3-point shooting.