Wisconsin vs. Delaware

WILMINGTON, Del. (Interstat) — The Wisconsin Herd and Delaware Blue Coats will meet for the second time in three days Saturday at 76ers Fieldhouse, with Delaware looking to complete a mini-series sweep after a narrow victory on Thursday.

The Blue Coats (13-18) edged the Herd (11-21) 105-103 in that contest, a game that featured standout individual performances. Delaware’s Ibrahim Cisse dominated the glass, pulling down 26 rebounds to go with 10 points, five assists and two blocks in 40 minutes. Jabari Walker added 33 points and eight rebounds for the home side.

Wisconsin’s Cormac Ryan was equally prolific, scoring 23 points with five rebounds. Ryan has been a consistent offensive force for the Herd, scoring 20 or more points in seven of his last 11 games, including a 25-point, eight-rebound effort in a win over Capital City on Jan. 30.

The rematch presents a quick turnaround for both G League squads. Wisconsin has lost three straight and eight of its last 10, seeking to reverse its fortunes on the road. Delaware has won three of its last four, including the two-game road sweep of the Valley Suns last weekend, and aims to build momentum before a five-day break.

Saturday’s game will hinge on interior battle and pace. Cisse’s rebounding prowess, evidenced by three double-doubles in his last six appearances, will challenge a Wisconsin frontcourt that got strong defensive play from John Butler (five blocks) and Jeremiah Tilmon (three blocks) in Thursday’s loss. Containing Ryan’s scoring burst will be a key focus for a Delaware defense that allowed 133 points in a loss to Motor City on Jan. 24.

Following this contest, the Herd return home to face Birmingham in a back-to-back next week. The Blue Coats do not play again until hosting Long Island on Feb. 12.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Saturday at 76ers Fieldhouse.