Wisconsin State Tournament Semi-Final Storylines

March 22, 2025 by Ngijol Songolo

The first portion of state semifinals began on Thursday, and there was no shortage of action. A few prospects shined bright on the big stage.

Donovan Davis Stamps His Arrival in Blow Out

Freedom made quick work of Elk Mound in the opening D3 semifinal thanks to early full court pressure and an intense approach from its stars. ‘27 Donovan Davis wreaked havoc at the head of the 1-2-2 zone, and showed why Wisconsin, Marquette, and Iowa State were early to offer him. His blend of feathery jump shooting and functional yet explosive athleticism at 6’7” led him to finish with 27 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals and 1 block on 12/13 from the field and 2/2 from three. His unsigned senior running mate Drew Kortz was no slouch, matching Davis’ 27 points. 

Freshman Zeb Robinson couldn’t get going for Elk Mound but showed solid flashes to build on this AAU season and in the coming years. Freedom won 66-32 to advance to the finals.

Star Power Makes the Difference for MAS

Arguably the most entertaining game of the day, Milwaukee Academy of Science and Lake Mills went blow for blow in a tight D3 chess match that saw MAS win 65-61. Coastal Carolina commit Devin Brown showed his versatility early, scoring at three levels. He didn’t let up all game, sealing the game with a clutch block. Iowa State commit Jamarion Batemon was a steady scoring presence and hit a clutch deep three late that shifted momentum to MAS for good. Deuce Burkes showed some flashes despite low production as he gets comfortable. Amare Jackson stuffed the stat sheet as usual, putting in 6 steals, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists.

On the other side, ‘27 Tyler Wollin played an all-around game and showed maturity above his age, making big shots in key moments. Minnesota State-Mankato (DII) commit AJ Bender was physical and aggressive, helping Lake Mills keep the lead most of the game.

Bonduel’s Experience Beats The Prairie School’s Youth

Starting just one senior, The Prairie School’s underclassmen gained valuable experience against a more seasoned Bonduel team in their D4 semifinal. Bonduel outlasted them 59-41 as Ryan Westrich feasted in the post. TPS youngsters generally couldn’t get going but ‘28 Emmett Wassil and ‘27 Ryan Vanoss showed promise.

D4 Semi Rematch Goes Aquinas’ Way

Last season’s D4 semifinal game came down to a buzzer beater as Mineral Point edged out Aquinas. This one almost went the same way as a game-tying three point attempt was a few centimeters from going in for Mineral Point. Aquinas battled back from down 14 to get the 57-54 win.