Wisconsin’s John Blackwell silences Minnesota with clutch buzzer-beater

The Wisconsin Badgers delivered another heart-stopping finish, continuing a recent run of dramatic victories that has energized fans and strengthened their position in the Big Ten race. Fresh off a stunning upset of No. 2 Michigan in Ann Arbor last weekend, Wisconsin followed it up with an equally memorable win on Tuesday night, this time against border rivals Minnesota.

The contest at Williams Arena in Minneapolis had all the ingredients of a classic. Minnesota appeared to have seized the moment when Cade Tyson drilled a clutch three-pointer with just five seconds remaining, leveling the score and sending the home crowd into a frenzy. But Wisconsin still had one last chance — and John Blackwell made sure it counted. As time expired, the Badgers guard launched a deep, 26-foot shot that sailed through the net at the buzzer, silencing the arena and sealing a thrilling 78–75 road victory.

Mar 15, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) is fouled by Michigan State Spartans guard Jaden Akins (3)in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The dramatic finish was the perfect exclamation point on another impressive performance by Greg Gard’s squad, who are clearly finding their rhythm. The Badgers are now riding a three-game winning streak, having also defeated UCLA in Madison prior to the marquee win over Michigan. Each victory has showcased Wisconsin’s resilience and ability to execute under pressure.

ELECTRIC ENDING TO MINNESOTA – WISCONSIN 🔥

WISCONSIN WINS AT THE BUZZER pic.twitter.com/RbGdMM86jE

— B/R Hoops (@brhoops) January 14, 2026

Against Minnesota, Wisconsin had to dig deep. The Badgers trailed by seven points at halftime and struggled to find consistency in the opening 20 minutes. However, the second half told a very different story. Wisconsin tightened up defensively and played with greater urgency, outscoring the Golden Gophers 50–40 after the break to set up the late-game heroics.

Blackwell was at the center of it all. The sophomore guard delivered a standout performance, finishing with 27 points on an efficient 8-of-14 shooting from the field. He was particularly lethal from beyond the arc, knocking down five of his seven attempts, including the unforgettable game-winner. Blackwell also filled the stat sheet with six rebounds and five assists while logging 34 high-energy minutes, underscoring his all-around impact.

Wisconsin also received a major boost from its bench. Braeden Carrington provided a spark with 21 points, all of which came from long range. Carrington buried seven three-pointers, stretching Minnesota’s defense and helping Wisconsin erase its halftime deficit. His shooting proved critical in keeping the Badgers within striking distance before Blackwell delivered the final blow.

For Minnesota, Jaylen Crocker-Johnson led the way with 20 points, while Tyson’s late three nearly forced overtime. Despite the loss, the Golden Gophers showed grit and competitiveness, particularly in the first half, but were ultimately undone by Wisconsin’s composure in crunch time.

Wisconsin guard John Blackwell (25) is shown during the second half of their game Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wisconsin. Wisconsin beat Ball State 86-55.

With the win, Wisconsin improved to 12–5 overall and 4–2 in Big Ten play, further strengthening its conference standing. Minnesota fell to 10–7 overall and 3–3 in league action. As the season progresses, Wisconsin’s recent run suggests a team growing in confidence — and with players like Blackwell thriving in big moments, the Badgers look capable of producing many more unforgettable nights.