Badgers sharp early, then survive lethargic stretch in second half to beat Leathernecks

MADISON – With the start of a brutal three-game stretch on the horizon, Greg Gard’s players methodically took care of business against a lesser foe Monday night at the Kohl Center.

Fresh off its championship at the Fort Myers Tip-Off, Wisconsin took control early against Western Illinois, led by double figures for the final 6 minutes 23 seconds of the first half and for most of the second half in a 71-49 victory.

The unranked