Wisconsin vs. Windy City
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. (Interstat) — The Windy City Bulls used a dominant first half to build a substantial lead and then withstood a furious fourth-quarter rally by the Wisconsin Herd to secure a 112-104 victory in a G League matchup on Tuesday night at Sears Centre.
The Bulls seized control early, erupting for 34 points in the opening quarter behind a blistering offensive display. The combination of guard Mac McClung’s scoring and point guard Yuki Kawamura’s playmaking propelled Windy City to a 63-56 halftime advantage. The home team then extended its lead in the third quarter, outscoring Wisconsin 30-19 to take a commanding 93-75 margin into the final period.
The most important part of the game was the Herd’s relentless comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, which fell just short after threatening the Bulls’ once-secure lead. Wisconsin, which entered the game with the worst record in the league, opened the final frame with a 19-4 run, cutting a 18-point deficit to just three points. Guard Cormac Ryan and center Justyn Hamilton fueled the surge, with Ryan connecting on a key 3-pointer and Hamilton scoring consistently inside.
Windy City’s offense, which had flowed freely for three quarters, suddenly stalled, managing only two field goals in the first eight minutes of the fourth. However, with their lead dwindling to 97-94, the Bulls stabilized. McClung hit a crucial 27-foot 3-pointer to push the lead back to six, and Kawamura followed with a driving layup to provide necessary breathing room. Wisconsin never got closer than five points the rest of the way as Windy City made enough free throws down the stretch to close out the game.
McClung led all scorers for Windy City, demonstrating a key performance with his perimeter shooting and playmaking. Kawamura directed the offense effectively, particularly during the first-half surge. For Wisconsin, Ryan provided a scoring spark throughout the contest, while Lacey James contributed with interior playmaking and rebounding.
The win improved Windy City’s record to an even 18-18 on the season, while Wisconsin dropped to 11-27. The two teams are scheduled to meet again in Chicago on March 16.
According to Interstat’s ELO system, Windy City was projected with a 76.40 percent probability to win. The Bulls have now won three consecutive meetings between the two teams dating back to November.