Wisconsin (14-9 overall, 6-4 in Big Ten) looks to continue its season high five-game winning streak against Nebraska (13-11, 5-6) on Wednesday at 6 PM (Big Ten Network).

This is the Badgers’ first game against the Cornhuskers this season, and Wisconsin has won three of the last four matchups.

Projected Starters

Projected Wisconsin Starters

G: Bronson Koenig (13.4 PPG, 2.4 APG)
G: Zak Showalter (7.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG)
F: Nigel Hayes (17.1 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.5 APG)
F: Vitto Brown (8.6 PPG, 5.0 RPG)
F: Ethan Happ (12.3 PPG, 8.1 RPG)

Projected Nebraska Starters

G: Benny Parker (4.7 PPG, 2.3 APG)
G: Glynn Watson Jr. (8.6 PPG, 2.7 APG)
G: Andrew White (17.2 PPG, 6.2 RPG)
F: Jack McKveigh (4.9 PPG, 2.9 RPG)
F: Michael Jacobson (4.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG)

Outlook

Nebraska’s second-leading scorer Shavon Shields had a scary head injury in their last game against Rutgers and had to be carried off on a stretcher. Shields, who is averaging 15.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, is under concussion protocol, and has been ruled out for Wednesday’s contest.

Taking his place could be Jack McKveigh, a freshman who usually comes off the bench. The 6’10” forward could add height to the starting lineup. Otherwise, if Nebraska sees fit to go small against the Badgers, they could start sixth man Tai Webster, who is averaging 10 points and 4 rebounds per game.

Andrew White will probably look to play an even bigger role than usual with Shields out. The Cornhuskers’ leading scorer won’t have his sidekick with him in Madison, so he’ll be more aggressive. White is shooting 42% from beyond the arc.

Things will be the same offensive end for the Badgers. A steady dose of Nigel Hayes, who is coming off of another outstanding performance against Ohio State with 21 points and 6 rebounds, and getting the ball inside to Ethan Happ will be the focus. Vitto Brown, bothered by a rib injury, has also been playing much better in his last three games, averaging 10 points and 3 rebounds in 16.3 minutes per game.

Look for Wisconsin’s starting guards Bronson Koenig and Zak Showalter to play well in this one. Nebraska may be a bit mixed up on defense without Shields, as Rutgers guard Corey Sanders dropped 28 against the Huskers on Saturday.

Bottom Line

The Badgers, as the theme continues, have another game that they can’t afford to lose if they want a shot at the NCAA Tournament. Louisville’s recently banned postseason activity gives an extra spot, so the Badgers have to keep taking care of business to end the season. It’s another must win for Wisconsin on Wednesday.