Two seasons ago, the Kansas State Wildcats won 26 games and enjoyed its best overall campaign since 2018-19, making the NCAA Tourney for the first time in four years and even going all the way to the regional final. Last season, however, KSU fell on hard times, winning just 19 games, and unfortunately, things have gotten even worse this season. Since a six-game win streak, the Wildcats have dropped four straight to fall to a losing record (13-15, including a substandard 7-10 mark in the Big 12).

After experiencing declining win totals in each of the last two seasons, the Michigan State Spartans have bounced back big time this season with a 21-5 mark (its best since 2018-19). No. 14 MSU is on a two-game win streak and has posted a stellar 12-3 record in Big Ten play, setting up a massive game Friday against arch rival and conference leader Michigan.

Since missing the NCAA Tourney two seasons ago with a disappointing 20-15 record, the Wisconsin Badgers have been on the rise. They returned to the dance last season on the strength of a 22-win campaign, although they did get knocked out in the first round.