Wisconsin basketball rockets up KenPom and ESPN BPI after win over Appalachian State

Badgers now third in KenPom and fourth in ESPN BPI after impressive victory

Wisconsin basketball continues to impress early in the 2022-23 season.

The Badgers, who entered the season unranked in both KenPom and ESPN BPI, have now moved up to third and fourth, respectively, in those rankings after a convincing 85-58 win over Appalachian State on Tuesday night.

The win over the Mountaineers was Wisconsin's third straight and fourth in its last five games. The Badgers have now won seven of their last nine games overall dating back to the end of last season.

Wisconsin's rise in the rankings is due in large part to their impressive play on both ends of the court. The Badgers are currently ranked 12th in KenPom's adjusted offensive efficiency and 15th in adjusted defensive efficiency.

On offense, Wisconsin is led by senior guard Tyler Wahl, who is averaging 14.8 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Wahl is shooting 51.9% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range.

Junior forward Steven Crowl is also having a strong season, averaging 13.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Crowl is shooting 61.0% from the field.

On defense, Wisconsin is led by senior guard Chucky Hepburn, who is averaging 2.3 steals per game. Hepburn is also a very good perimeter defender, holding opponents to just 32.1% shooting from three-point range.

The Badgers will look to continue their climb up the rankings when they host Wake Forest on Friday night.