Wisconsin vs. Kentucky: 5 differences in the rematch
Nov 14, 2014; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers players including Frank Kaminsky front) watch the new “Final Four 2014” banner being raised during pre-game ceremonies before the game with the Northern Kentucky Norse at the Kohl Center. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports
5.) Experience
Piggy backing off difference No. 4, the experiences of each team are much different than last year’s. Kentucky has a completely different team playing Saturday, while Wisconsin has the same team minus guard Ben Brust.
While Kentucky has dealt with their own pressures this season by keeping their perfect season alive, major players have not played in the Final Four yet. Players like Willie Cauley-Stein, Karl-Anthony Towns, Trey Lyles, Devin Booker, and Tyler Ulis have yet to play on a stage like this one.
Wisconsin is playing with the same group as last year. They’ve seen what it takes to win, they know what the atmosphere is like, they’re going to be coming into this game ready for everything.
Not only is this Kentucky team going to have to deal with the same pressures that Final Four bring, but that pursuit of perfection is going to always be looming in the back of their minds.
Will the experience of being their before help Wisconsin avenge last season’s defeat? I certainly hope so.