The anticipation is palpable as the No. 5 ranked Purdue Boilermakers prepare to take on the formidable Wisconsin Badgers in Madison, Wisconsin. The matchup, scheduled for Saturday, January 3, 2026, is part of the ongoing Big Ten conference play, with the potential to shake up the college basketball landscape.
Purdue's current standing as the fifth best team in the nation reflects their impressive performance this season, with a record of 12-1 and a four-game winning streak. The team's strong defense and potent offense have been key factors in their success. The Boilermakers are ranked 33rd in points per game and 17th in points conceded, showcasing their balanced approach to the game.
The Wisconsin Badgers, on the other hand, have had a respectable season thus far. Although they have struggled defensively, averaging 73.2 points conceded per game, their offense has been a bright spot, scoring 83.5 points per contest. The Badgers are also strong on the boards, ranking 103rd in the country in rebounds.
Fans eager to witness this high-stakes matchup will have several options to watch the game. The game will be broadcasted on FOX, with streaming options available on fuboTV and the Fox Sports app. For those who prefer to watch without cable, various live streaming services such as Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV offer comprehensive coverage of college basketball, including the NCAA Tournament.
This matchup is not just a battle of current strengths but also a clash of historical rivals. The Badgers and Boilermakers have faced each other 190 times, with the Boilermakers holding a slight edge in the series. The rich history between these two teams adds an extra layer of excitement to the game, making it a must-watch event for college basketball enthusiasts.
