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Madison, WI – The No. 10 Michigan State Spartans (20-4, 10-3 Big Ten) travel to the Kohl Center on Friday night to face the Wisconsin Badgers (17-7, 9-4 Big Ten) in a crucial Big Ten matchup. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET, with national television coverage on FOX. This contest carries significant weight as both teams vie for positioning in a crowded conference race, with the Spartans currently sitting 2.5 games back of the league lead and the Badgers trailing by 3.5.

Coming off a dramatic 85-82 overtime victory against Illinois, Michigan State aims to build momentum against a Wisconsin squad that also recently secured a notable overtime win against the Illini. The game promises a clash of styles and strengths, with both teams demonstrating an ability to perform under pressure. The Spartans are currently favored by 1.5 points, according to consensus sportsbooks, as of February 13, 2026.

Key Matchups and What to Expect

Wisconsin’s offensive attack is heavily reliant on the three-point shot, attempting the 11th-most three-pointers in the nation with 31.5 per game. They’ve demonstrated the ability to gain hot from beyond the arc, hitting 16 of 36 against Illinois and 15 of 33 at Michigan. Michigan State, ranked as the No. 4 defense in college basketball per Kenpom’s efficiency rankings, will be tested in defending the perimeter. The Badgers are shooting 35% from three-point range, comparable to Michigan State’s percentage.

The Badgers boast a strong backcourt duo in San Diego State transfer Nick Boyd and junior John Blackwell. Boyd is known for his ability to penetrate and create scoring opportunities, while Blackwell, a Bloomfield Hills native, is a versatile player with a well-rounded skillset. Michigan State’s Jeremy Fears Jr., the nation’s leader in assists at 9.1 per game, will have a key role in containing Boyd and disrupting Wisconsin’s offensive flow.

Team Stats and Rankings

Michigan State enters the game as the nation’s top rebounding team, leading the country in defensive rebounding and ranking fifth in offensive rebounding. Wisconsin, meanwhile, prioritizes defensive transitions, often foregoing offensive rebounds to quickly get back on defense. This strategic difference could influence the pace and flow of the game.

Here’s a quick look at the key details:

• Records: Michigan State (20-4, 10-3 Big Ten), Wisconsin (17-7, 9-4 Big Ten)
• Rankings: MSU (No. 10 AP, No. 10 Coaches, No. 11 NET, No. 10 Kenpom), Wisconsin (Unranked AP/Coaches, No. 37 NET, No. 36 Kenpom)
• Coaches: Tom Izzo (MSU – 757-306), Greg Gard (Wisconsin – 230-124)
• Series Record: Michigan State leads 86-69
• Betting Line: Michigan State -1.5

Injury Concerns and Lineup Notes

Michigan State is navigating a key injury with guard Divine Ugochukwu sidelined for the season with a broken foot. Coach Tom Izzo has expressed confidence in Denham Wojcik as the primary backup for Fears Jr. At point guard, though freshman Jordan Scott could witness emergency minutes if needed.

Projected starting lineups are as follows:

Broadcast Information

Fans can catch the game live on FOX, with radio coverage available through the Spartan Sports Network, including WJIM 1240-AM and WMMQ 94.9-FM. SiriusXM will also broadcast the game on channels 195 (MSU) and 84 (Wisconsin).

Following this challenging road contest, Michigan State returns home to face UCLA and Ohio State, presenting an opportunity to strengthen their position in the Big Ten standings before a difficult stretch to close out the regular season. The outcome of Friday’s game at the Kohl Center will undoubtedly have significant implications for both teams’ postseason aspirations.

What are your predictions for the game? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow college basketball fans!

Milan, Italy – As the U.S. Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey Team advances to the quarterfinal round in Milan, a different kind of winning streak is unfolding on the sidelines. Head coach John Wroblewski is capturing attention not for strategy or plays, but for a vintage USA hockey jacket he’s been sporting during games. The jacket, a cream snap-front with distinctive red, white, and blue accents and a hockey stick embroidered on it, has quickly become a fan favorite and a symbol of the team’s connection to the sport’s history.

Wroblewski, a Wisconsin native who has led the U.S. Women’s National Team since 2022, unknowingly acquired a piece of hockey heritage. The jacket’s story, as it turns out, is deeply intertwined with the efforts to grow the sport and, specifically, to bring women’s hockey to the Olympic stage. The unexpected backstory has resonated with fans and players alike, adding another layer of significance to the team’s Olympic journey.

The jacket originally belonged to Walter Bush, a pivotal figure in U.S. Hockey. According to NBC, Bush was a U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame inductee who served as manager for the 1964 U.S. Olympic Team and was a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee. His dedication extended beyond his own playing and coaching career; he was instrumental in advocating for the inclusion of women’s hockey as an Olympic sport, a milestone finally achieved in 1998. USA Hockey memorialized Bush following his death in 2016 at the age of 86.

The jacket’s journey from Bush’s possession to Wroblewski’s bench is a story of serendipity. After Bush’s passing, the jacket surfaced at an estate sale before eventually being listed on eBay. Wroblewski purchased the jacket without knowing its history, simply appreciating its vintage style. It wasn’t until after the purchase that he learned of its connection to Bush and his legacy.

John Wroblewski wearing the vintage USA jacket during a game. (USA Hockey)

The timing of the jacket’s rediscovery is particularly poignant, as the Winter Olympics often showcase not only athletic prowess but also fashion and cultural moments. This year has been no exception, with the Polo Ralph Lauren opening ceremony outfits and a viral Nike eagle blanket/skirt already generating buzz. However, Wroblewski’s vintage find stands out as a tribute to the sport’s past and a reminder of the individuals who paved the way for today’s athletes.

Wroblewski’s team has been dominant in the preliminary rounds, securing four consecutive wins leading up to today’s quarterfinal match against Italy. The U.S. Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey Team opened their Olympic competition on February 5 against Czechia, and have continued to impress with their performance. USA Hockey details Wroblewski’s coaching achievements, including leading Team USA to the 2023 and 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championships.

As Team USA prepares to face Italy, all eyes will be on the ice. But many fans will also be watching to see if Wroblewski will once again don the historic jacket, a tangible link to the pioneers who helped shape the sport and a symbol of the team’s enduring legacy. The jacket serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and vision of individuals like Walter Bush, whose contributions continue to inspire generations of hockey players.

The quarterfinal match against Italy promises to be a thrilling contest, and the U.S. Team will undoubtedly be looking to continue their winning streak. Beyond the game itself, the story of Wroblewski’s jacket offers a compelling narrative of history, serendipity, and the enduring power of sport.

What will Wroblewski and the U.S. Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey Team do next? The team’s performance in the quarterfinals will determine their path to a potential medal, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can continue their impressive run. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

MILAN, Italy – Cha Jun-hwan delivered a stunning short program at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics on February 11, securing sixth place with a season-best score of 92.72. The 25-year-old South Korean skater’s performance, highlighted by a quad Salchow and a triple Lutz-triple loop combination, has ignited hopes for a historic medal finish and cemented his status as a leading figure in men’s figure skating. As Cha prepares for the free skate, here are ten essential facts about the athlete captivating audiences at the Winter Games.

Cha’s strong showing comes after a challenging season marked by injury and a less-than-ideal performance in the team event. Now, he stands as Korea’s best chance for a podium finish in the men’s singles competition, carrying the weight of national expectations and a decade of dedication to the sport. This Olympics represents not just another competition for Cha, but a culmination of years of growth and perseverance.

The skater’s performance at the Milano Ice Skating Arena showcased not only technical skill but also a maturity and artistry that resonated with judges and fans alike. His ability to navigate ongoing physical challenges while delivering a compelling routine underscores his resilience and determination. The question now is whether he can maintain this momentum and translate it into a medal-winning free skate.

From PyeongChang to Milano: A Decade of Olympic Experience

The 2026 Winter Olympics mark Cha Jun-hwan’s third consecutive appearance on the Olympic stage. He first competed at the 2018 PyeongChang Games at the age of 16, finishing 15th and gaining valuable experience on home ice. At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Cha achieved a fifth-place finish – the best result ever for a South Korean man in the event, according to web search results. Now, in Milano, he returns as a seasoned veteran, leading the charge for his nation.

A Historic Silver Medal at Worlds

Cha etched his name into the history books in 2023 by winning a silver medal at the World Championships in Saitama, Japan. This was the first-ever medal won by a Korean man at the World Championships. That same year, he also led South Korea to a silver medal at the World Team Trophy, demonstrating the growing strength of Korean figure skating beyond its traditionally dominant women’s program.

Pioneering the Quad in Korean Skating

Cha Jun-hwan revolutionized Korean figure skating by becoming the first skater from the country to land a clean quadruple jump in international competition. His technical repertoire includes the quad Salchow and quad Toe Loop, complemented by Level 4 spins and footwork. While his 2026 Olympic strategy has focused on stability due to recent injuries, his ability to achieve high Grades of Execution (GOE) keeps him competitive with the world’s top skaters.

Battling Through Injury: The “Ice Warrior”

The 2025-26 season has been a testament to Cha’s resilience, as he has battled persistent boot fit issues and chronic ankle pain. These challenges forced him to simplify his jump layout for the Olympics. Following a difficult team event where he struggled with his triple Axel, Cha took a brief period of rest and recovery, declaring his condition “good” before his triumphant short program performance.

A Decade of Domestic Dominance

Cha is the undisputed king of South Korean domestic skating, having secured his 10th consecutive South Korean National title in January 2026. He finished the competition with a total score of 277.84 points, solidifying his position as the clear leader among his domestic rivals. This consistent dominance allows him to use national events as a crucial testing ground for the high-pressure international circuit.

Medals Across the International Stage

Cha has achieved a rare feat by medaling at nearly every major international event before the age of 25. His impressive collection of medals includes a gold medal at the Four Continents Championships in 2022, a silver medal at the 2023 World Championships, and a bronze medal at the 2018 Grand Prix Final. He also holds a bronze medal from the Junior Grand Prix Final, establishing him as the most consistently successful Korean male skater in history.

Breaking Personal Best Records

Cha’s career has been marked by a steady ascent in personal best scores. He became the first Korean man to break the 100-point barrier in the short program, achieving a personal best of 101.33 at the 2023 World Team Trophy. His total score peak of over 280 points places him among the elite skaters capable of challenging for the podium, even when not attempting the maximum number of quadruple jumps.

Military Service Exemption Through Athletic Achievement

Unlike many South Korean athletes who are required to fulfill mandatory military service, Cha Jun-hwan is exempt. He earned this exemption by winning the gold medal at the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China, defeating top Japanese competitors. This victory allowed him to focus entirely on his preparation for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games.

The Free Skate: A Chance to Make History

Entering the free skate in sixth place, Cha faces a roughly 10-point gap to the medal contenders. Skating to “Balada para un Loco,” he aims to surpass his fifth-place finish from Beijing 2022. Regardless of the final result, his presence among the world’s best skaters solidifies his legacy as a leading figure in Korean figure skating.

Cha Jun-hwan’s free skate performance will be a pivotal moment, not only for his Olympic aspirations but also for the future of Korean men’s figure skating. The world will be watching to see if he can deliver a performance that cements his place in Olympic history. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

MILAN – Andrew Torgashev is turning heads at the 2026 Winter Olympics, and it’s not just his performance on the ice. The 24-year-old American figure skater delivered a stunning short program on Tuesday, February 10th, securing his place in the free skate competition. But behind the impressive routine lies a significant lifestyle change: a complete overhaul of his diet. Torgashev traded late-night deliveries of pizza, Panda Express, and tacos for a regimen of lean proteins and vegetables, a shift he credits with dramatically improving his athleticism and consistency.

Torgashev’s transformation comes after a period of inconsistent results in Grand Prix events. He rebounded to achieve a second-place finish at nationals, but the Olympics presented a new level of pressure. He initially struggled with nerves before his short program, but ultimately channeled that energy into a performance he described as “rock and roll,” earning an 88.94 score and a leading position – though briefly – among competitors. This success underscores the impact of his dedication to a healthier lifestyle.

The skater explained that maintaining peak physical condition is crucial for executing the demanding jumps and spins required in figure skating. “I’m learning that it helps a lot to eat cleaner and be skinny, to jump and jump easily and have better consistency,” Torgashev said. “The skinnier you are, the easier it is so I’m in great shape.” He acknowledged a past reliance on convenient, but less nutritious, food options after long hours at the rink.

Torgashev’s commitment to change was bolstered by the presence of his mother, who helped him avoid the temptation of readily available takeout. “There’s no DoorDashing with my mom around,” he joked, explaining that consistent late-night meals, even those intended to be healthy, added up in calories. He now focuses on fueling his body with foods that provide sustained energy rather than hindering performance.

From Fast Food to Fuel: Torgashev’s Dietary Shift

The change wasn’t about deprivation, however. Torgashev plans to celebrate his successful short program with a well-deserved slice of pizza, and he’s looking forward to fully enjoying the experience when he competes in the free skate on Friday. “Just know I’m going to go ham,” he said with a smile. This balanced approach highlights his understanding that a sustainable lifestyle isn’t about restriction, but about making informed choices that support his athletic goals.

Torgashev’s journey reflects a growing awareness among athletes of the critical link between nutrition and performance. While talent and rigorous training are essential, optimizing diet can provide a significant competitive edge. His story is a testament to the power of discipline and the positive impact of prioritizing health, even amidst the pressures of elite competition. He credits the change with helping him tap into the “muscle memory” developed through countless hours of practice, allowing him to execute his program with confidence even when facing pre-performance jitters.

The skater recalled a moment of self-doubt before taking the ice, admitting he questioned his own decision to pursue such a demanding sport. However, once the music started, his training took over, and he delivered a performance that showcased his skill and dedication. He even noted a slight wobble during his initial toe stop, but his consistent practice allowed him to overcome the momentary uncertainty and execute his routine flawlessly.

Looking Ahead to the Free Skate

Torgashev’s success in the short program sets the stage for a compelling free skate competition. He will be looking to build on this momentum and deliver another strong performance. The free skate will ultimately determine who secures a spot on the podium in men’s figure skating. Fans can expect a dynamic and energetic routine from Torgashev, who is embracing the opportunity to perform on the Olympic stage.

The 2026 Winter Olympics continue to deliver thrilling moments, and Andrew Torgashev’s story is a reminder that success often requires more than just athletic ability. It demands dedication, discipline, and a willingness to develop the necessary changes to achieve peak performance. Share your thoughts on Torgashev’s transformation and his Olympic journey in the comments below.