Wisconsin and Illinois to Meet in Big Ten Championship

It was Midwest Madness Saturday as the finalists for the Big Ten Tournament were determined with both games going down to the end.

No. 6 Wisconsin Escapes No. 19 Michigan State

The Badgers overcame a deficit of 12 points in the second half and Guard Michael Flowers showed why he has the most recognizable name on a team that has won its' last 9 games.

Flowers made a steal with 30 seconds left and converted an easy lay-up at the other end of the court to carry the Badgers to a 65-63 victory Saturday. The win propels the Badgers to their second straight Big Ten Championship and sends Michigan State packing after a foul riddled game in which 4 Spartans fouled out.

While the Spartans led in FG, 3P, and FT Percentage, it was the 30 fouls that they committed to send them home.

Drew Neitzel led the game with 26 points while Brian Butch led the way for the Badgers with 19 points.

The Badgers take their chances in the Big Ten Championship Game on Sunday at 3:30 PM ET.

Minnesota's Magic Runs Out Vs. Illinois

After squeaking by Indiana with a miracle shot by freshman Blake Hoffarber on Friday, Minnesota faithful were left to wonder if this was a special year for its' Golden Gophers. Unfortunately, the thought wouldn't last.

Center Shaun Pruitt made a jumper to tie the game at 2-2, and with 17:57 left in the first half, the Fighting Illini never fell behind again and advanced the tournament with a 54-50 victory over Minnesota Saturday.

While keeping up with Illinois all game long and overcoming a 10 point deficit with less than 3 minutes to play, Minnesota couldn't muster enough energy to avoid becoming Illinois' fourth straight victim.

Pruitt led the game with 16 points and 8 rebounds, while Lawrence McKenzie led Minnesota with 13 points.

Illinois will play its' fourth game in as many days against Wisconsin on Sunday. The winner receives an automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament.