Wisconsin vs. Windy City
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. (Interstat) — In a game defined by relentless offensive execution and dramatic momentum swings, the Windy City Bulls edged the Wisconsin Herd 116-115 in a G League thriller on Monday night at Sears Centre.
The contest was a showcase of resilience for the home team, which overcame a torrid start by the Herd and multiple deficits to secure the one-point victory. The win improved Windy City to 22-23, while Wisconsin fell to 13-32.
The most critical phase of the game unfolded in the final minute. Trailing 115-113 with under five seconds remaining, Windy City’s Mac McClung, who was a catalyst throughout the night, drained a 27-foot 3-pointer to put the Bulls ahead 116-115. Wisconsin called a timeout to advance the ball but was then assessed a delay of game violation. Following another Windy City timeout, the Herd’s Cormac Ryan was fouled and sent to the line with three seconds left. Ryan calmly sank both free throws to tie the game, but the points were wiped off the board as the foul occurred before the inbounds pass, and the violation meant Wisconsin was not in the bonus. Windy City was able to inbound and run out the clock, securing the win.
The game’s conclusion capped a night where neither team led by more than a handful of points. Wisconsin started strong, posting 30 points in the opening quarter, but Windy City answered with 29. The pattern of counter-punches continued in the second, with the Bulls taking a slim 59-58 lead into halftime after outscoring the Herd 30-29 in the period.
Windy City built its largest lead in the third quarter, using a 31-point frame to carry a 90-86 advantage into the final 12 minutes. The Herd, demonstrating the fight that has characterized several of their recent outings, chipped away in the fourth. Key plays from Ryan, Mark Sears and John Butler kept Wisconsin within striking distance, setting the stage for the frantic final sequence.
The Bulls’ balance proved decisive, with multiple players contributing to the high-scoring effort. Kevin Knox provided consistent offense, while Giorgi Bezhanishvili anchored the interior. McClung’s playmaking and clutch shooting, culminating in the game-winning three, underscored his importance.
For Wisconsin, the loss was a bitter setback in a tightly contested game where they led for significant stretches. The Herd’s scoring was evenly distributed across the quarters, but they were unable to get a final stop or score when it mattered most.
The victory allowed Windy City to maintain its positive momentum as it prepares for a road trip, starting Wednesday at Capital City. Wisconsin, which has shown improved competitiveness lately, will look to regroup when it hosts Motor City for a two-game series starting Friday.