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UW men's basketball: Stiemsma continues to make impact

Tamira Madsen  —  3/23/2008 6:01 am

OMAHA, Neb. -- Junior Joe Krabbenhoft took a moment to collect his emotions before discussing Greg Stiemsma's stellar effort in the University of Wisconsin men's basketball team's 72-55 NCAA tournament win against Kansas State.

Stiemsma scored a career-high 14 points on 6-of-9 shooting and grabbed seven rebounds in 14 minutes of action Saturday night in a Midwest Regional second-round victory that clinched a Sweet 16 slot and trip to Detroit for the Badgers.

"That's my best friend," Krabbenhoft said of his roommate, who has averaged 11 minutes and 11 points in two NCAA tournament wins. "He's worked so hard, it's nice to finally see some shots (go down).

"He's done so much for us all year, but on this stage to get the recognition that he's going to receive, I'm so happy for him."

Besides scoring seven points -- including a dunk -- in the first 12 minutes of the game, the senior reserve provided a spark as the Badgers padded their lead in the second half. He had a tip-in after a missed foul shot by Trevon Hughes as UW took a 58-45 lead with 9 minutes, 22 seconds left. Less than 45 seconds later, Stiemsma completed a three-point play with a layup and free throw to push the lead back to 11 points at 60-49.

The 6-foot-11 center also had a hand in containing Kansas State star Michael Beasley in the second half by keeping the 6-10 All-American off the offensive boards and making him alter his moves in the paint. Beasley scored just six of his game-high 23 points after halftime and had only two offensive rebounds in the game.

Fellow senior Brian Butch has been impressed with how well the Badgers have played in the tournament. According to Butch, Stiemsma had one of the best performances of his career against the Wildcats.

"This is why this team is so good, because you don't have one guy that you can key on," Butch said. "For him to go up there and get big numbers doesn't surprise anyone in this locker room. We all believe in him and what he can do. It's great to see him do so well.

"Yeah, I think it's the best game. He did a great job and it probably ranks right up there, for sure."

Stiemsma said he agreed with Butch's assessment, and added he's been motivated to stretch out his collegiate season a bit longer.

Considering the struggles during Stiemsma's career, including inconsistent play, injuries and a bout with depression his sophomore season, the reserve's elevated play makes the Badgers' postseason run even more memorable.

"It was one of those games you never forget," Stiemsma said. "There's only 32 teams left at this point and we're one of the fortunate enough ones to be able to go to the Sweet 16 and then some."

Unlike Krabbenhoft, Stiemsma keeps his emotions in check. But Stiemsma said contributing to the collective effort during UW's special season has been a thrill.

"You've just got to stay at it," Stiemsma said. "Ups, downs, I've been through both. Trying to stay on an even keel and enjoy the highs when they come, because you never know when the next one is coming. Not get too down on lows.

"Tonight is going to be one of those highs."

Tamira Madsen  —  3/23/2008 6:01 am