BYU vs Wisconsin Prediction: Ranked Showdown

Ranked Non-Conference Clash: BYU vs Wisconsin Preview

No. 9 BYU Cougars (3-1) welcome No. 23 Wisconsin Badgers (4-0) to the Delta Center on Friday, November 21, in a highly anticipated non-conference showdown. Both teams enter the matchup with top-25 KenPom rankings and contrasting styles of play, setting the stage for a compelling battle between two NCAA Tournament contenders.

Stakes & Storylines

For BYU, this game represents a critical rebound opportunity after a narrow 86-84 loss to No. 3 UConn. The Cougars need to maintain their top-10 national standing and prove their resilience without key contributors. Center Keba Keita remains questionable with an injury, while Kennard Davis faces an indefinite suspension, potentially depleting BYU's frontcourt depth.

Wisconsin, meanwhile, seeks revenge for their stunning 91-89 second-round NCAA Tournament exit to BYU last March. The Badgers have dominated early opponents, outscoring teams by an average of 28+ points. Their explosive backcourt of John Blackwell (19.5 PPG) and Nick Boyd (20.0 PPG) has been pivotal, combining for 78 points through four games.

"BYU defeated Wisconsin in the NCAA Tournament just eight months ago, adding extra motivation to this rematch."

Key Matchups to Watch

The game's outcome could hinge on three critical battles:

BYU's Freshman Phenom vs Wisconsin's Defense: Top-2026 recruit AJ Dybantsa (20.3 PPG) must contend with Wisconsin's stifling defense (65 points allowed per game). Look for the Badgers' Nolan Winter to apply defensive pressure.
Backcourt Firepower: Wisconsin's Boyd and Blackwell (39.5 combined PPG) face BYU's dynamic duo of Richie Saunders (19.5 PPG) and Rob Wright III (17.8 PPG, 4.3 APG).
Frontcourt Battle: Without Keita, BYU's interior defense will be tested by Wisconsin's Austin Rapp (15 PPG, 8 RPG) and Steven Crowl.

BYU vs Wisconsin Prediction

Wisconsin enters as a 3.5-point favorite with a 158.5-point over/under. The Badgers' experience, balanced scoring, and motivation for revenge give them the edge. However, BYU's top-10 offense (84.5 PPG) and home-court advantage could keep this game close. Expect a high-scoring affair with Wisconsin pulling away late due to deeper bench strength.

Prediction: Wisconsin 87-82 BYU

How to Watch: BYU vs Wisconsin

Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM CT (2:00 PM MDT)
Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City
TV/Streaming: Peacock (exclusive coverage)
Radio: Badger Radio Network (102.7 FM/1160 AM)

This non-conference clash offers a preview of potential NCAA Tournament implications. Wisconsin aims to validate its top-25 ranking with a signature road win, while BYU needs to establish itself as a true contender amid personnel challenges.

Don't miss what could be the most anticipated non-conference game of the early season – tip-off is at 3:00 PM CT on Peacock!