Challenges and Opportunities in Resuming the Wisconsin-Marquette Women’s Basketball Rivalry

Ditching of Wisconsin vs Marquette women’s hoops clash isn’t straightforward

MADISON – As the annual showdown between the men’s basketball squads from Wisconsin and Marquette looms, the freeze on the women’s game between the two universities is still in place.

It’s been a while since both programs last played, a six-year hiatus to be precise following the early stages of the 2017-2018 season. The rivalry’s current pause marks the longest break since the teams first began clashing back in 1977.

UW holds the edge in the all-time series, leading 13-12, but Marquette clinched the victories in the most recent three meetings.

“I’d be very much open to it,” commented Wisconsin coach, Marisa Moseley. “I think it’s been something that’s been discussed … I think any time you can get any kind of in-state rivalry going on it’s always exciting for fans of both places.”

Marquette coach Megan Duffy echoed similar sentiments, implying that while she’s open, the scheduling requires a delicate and strategic balance.

The last time both teams crossed paths, they were on divergent trajectories. Back in 2017, Marquette commenced a run of six straight postseason appearances, including five NCAA Tournament appearances. Meanwhile, UW registered a string of consecutive losing seasons, with the 2010-11 season setting the precedent.

Last year, the Badgers managed to clinch their most Big Ten games (six) in 12 years, albeit finishing a low 107th on the NCAA’s NET ranking (NCAA Evaluation Tool).

Duffy cited the importance of NET rankings in shaping her non-conference schedule, emphasizing that each team’s unique position plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process.

As both coaches mull over the possibility of reviving the showdown, it seems that the path ahead is anything but straightforward.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s website: “Why resuming the Wisconsin-Marquette women’s hoops series isn’t simple”

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Laura Davis

Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.