April 1, 2015
Before the Bo Ryan era, Wisconsin’s basketball history was not all that rich. The Badgers had won one NCAA Tournament, in 1941. After that, they had one other tournament appearance until 1994 and that was in 1947. Wisconsin started making the tournament consistently in Dick Bennett’s third season as head coach starting in 1998, but did not see great success until Ryan took over in 2001. The Badgers have been to three Final Fours in the modern era, and 2015 will represent their second trip in a row.
Last season, Wisconsin made it to the Final Four to take on a Kentucky team that was just a No. 8 seed. However, the Wildcats were able to squeak past the Badgers for a 74-73 win. For those who attended the Final Four at AT&T Stadium last year, prices weren’t too high on the secondary market, relatively. The average price for Final Four tickets last year was $891.29 on the secondary market, which also included the other Final Four game between Florida and UConn.
This year, prices will be a little more expensive. The current average price for Wisconsin Final Four tickets is $1,054.34, 18.2% above the 2014 Final Four. Wisconsin will again take on Kentucky, a team that appears to be much better the one in the tournament last year. The Wildcats are currently 38-0, looking to become the first college basketball team in 39 years to go through a season undefeated. Even as a No. 1 seed themselves, the Badgers may be big underdogs.
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The Badgers are a much better team than they were at this point last year as well. Wisconsin heads into Lucas Oil Stadium with a record of 35-3, and ranked as the third best team in the nation. The Badgers will rely on the strengths of Sam Dekker and Frank Kaminsky in their attempt to take down the undefeated Wildcats.
Wisconsin has seen some of best seasons in its basketball history over the past few years. Win or lose in the Final Four this Wisconsin team is up there, but with a win this could be the best team in school history. For many that will be worth the high prices for Final Four tickets this weekend.
