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Badgers fans make 'Sweet' trip to NYC for game

Posted at 1:20 PM, Mar 24, 2017
and last updated 2017-03-24 14:34:54-04

The Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball team is playing in its fourth “Sweet 16” game in four years.

After defeating Villanova in the NCAA Basketball Tournament last weekend, Wisconsin will play the Florida Gators Friday night at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

“There's absolutely no doubt Bucky's going to bring home a win,” said Mike Victorson. He and his family were flying out of Mitchell Airport Friday morning. They’ll watch tonight’s game in person.

“This is a bucket list item for sure,” said Karin Victorson. “Just to be able to go to New York City and see a game in that arena is very special.” 

Mike, Karin, and their son Erik live in Oregon, Wisconsin. The same town that’s currently home to Badgers’ head coach Greg Gard.

“The Gards are friends,” Mike Victorson said. “Erik actually goes to school with one of his sons.”

“They’ve come through a lot and it’s fun to watch them enjoy all of this with the team,” he said of Gard and his family. “It gives you a lot of hope that good things can happen to good people.”

The winner of the Wisconsin game will play the winner of Baylor vs. South Carolina for the chance to advance to the NCAA Final Four.

Even those not making the trip to New York City are anxious for Friday night’s 9:00 p.m. tip off.

“Wisconsin’s got a good program, and I believe they’re going to to win it this year,” said Badgers fan Michael Staranowicz. “It’s pretty exciting. It’s good for the State of Wisconsin and good for the university.”

“I just think their style of play, offense and defense, and their tempo will dictate the game,” said Laurie Batten, of Mauston. “I think they’re going to win.” 

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