Wisconsin's Austin Rapp delivers clutch performance to lift Badgers over No. 8 Illinois

Sophomore forward scores 18 points, including two key 3-pointers in overtime win

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Wisconsin sophomore Austin Rapp scored 18 points off the bench, including two crucial 3-pointers in the final minute of regulation, to help the Badgers defeat No. 8 Illinois 92-90 in overtime. Rapp's big game came despite dealing with the lingering effects of the flu, which caused him to miss the previous game. The win was Wisconsin's fourth Big Ten road victory and second against an AP Top-10 opponent this season.

Why it matters

Rapp's performance was a breakout moment for the young forward, who has struggled with consistency this season. His ability to step up and hit big shots in a hostile environment against a top-10 opponent showcases his potential and the Badgers' depth beyond their star backcourt duo of Nick Boyd and John Blackwell.

The details

Rapp, who was coming off an illness that caused him to miss the previous game, scored 18 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, and made 2 steals and a block. His two 3-pointers in the final minute of regulation helped Wisconsin force overtime after they had squandered a late lead. Rapp's confidence and composure in the clutch moments impressed his coaches and teammates, who trusted him to take the big shots.

  • Rapp started envisioning himself hitting big shots the night before the game while preparing for bed.
  • Rapp scored 18 points, including two key 3-pointers, in Wisconsin's 92-90 overtime win at No. 8 Illinois on February 10, 2026.

The players

Austin Rapp

A sophomore forward for the Wisconsin Badgers who scored 18 points off the bench, including two crucial 3-pointers in the final minute of regulation, to help lift Wisconsin to a 92-90 overtime win over No. 8 Illinois.

Nick Boyd

One of Wisconsin's star guards, who combined with John Blackwell to score 49 points, becoming the first Big Ten duo to both score 20+ points in two top-10 road games since at least 2004-05.

John Blackwell

One of Wisconsin's star guards, who combined with Nick Boyd to score 49 points, becoming the first Big Ten duo to both score 20+ points in two top-10 road games since at least 2004-05.

Greg Gard

The head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers, who trusted Rapp to take the big shots down the stretch and praised his growth as a complete player.

Tomislav Ivisic

The Illinois Fighting Illini center who lost track of Rapp, allowing him to get open for a crucial 3-pointer late in regulation.

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What they’re saying

“He's a knock-down shooter. That's why we recruited him for ... I trusted him. I knew I was going to draw a crowd, and I kicked out to him. He stepped up really big.”

— John Blackwell, Wisconsin guard (Twitter)

“It shows how much confidence he has in me. I've been going through ups and downs this year, but ultimately, he trusts me. He trusts me more and more and more every game. The more I produce, the more I guard on the other end.”

— Austin Rapp, Wisconsin forward (si.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game showcases the depth and resilience of the Wisconsin Badgers, who were able to overcome a tough road environment and a top-10 opponent despite one of their key players dealing with the lingering effects of illness. Rapp's breakout performance demonstrates the team's ability to get contributions from unexpected sources, which will be crucial as they continue their push for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.