The game featured eight ties and 15 lead changes. The Phoenix started off strong, hitting 46 percent from the field while the Badgers managed to shoot only 36 percent. Wisconsin kept the game close by outrebounding the Phoenix 27-12 in the opening frame and went into halftime leading, 32-31.

"In the first half, they really took us out of our game," Albright said. "We had some problems scoring and they hit everything. Obviously, our size mismatch was something we wanted to exploit, but they did a real good job of spreading out our post people."

UW continued to control the boards in the second half, grabbing 24 more rebounds for the game. The Badgers also stepped their its outside shooting, hitting 57 percent from the floor in the second half.

The teams stayed close, but the Badgers moved away late in the game by using their size. With the score tied at 49 at the 5:41 mark, UW forward LaTonya Sims nailed a three-pointer to ignite a UW run. The Badgers allowed UWGB only one field goal during the last 3:05 of the game, and preserved the victory with four free throws down the stretch.

"This was a big win for us," Albright said. "Anytime you beat an in-state rival on the road and have a really big crowd, it's a big win."

Sims led the Badgers with a game-high 17 points to go along with nine rebounds. Sophomores Jessie Stomski and Tamara Moore each contributed a double-double for the Badgers. Stomski pulled down 10 rebounds and scored 14 points, while Moore chipped in 11 points and grabbed a game-high 12 boards.

The Badgers will return for their home opener this coming Sunday. Tennessee, ranked No. 3 in the country, will provide an opportunity for UW to earn a win over the highest-ranked opponent in program history.