Butler used a sound defensive game plan to build a 33-24 lead at halftime, grew that lead to 20 with under 12 minutes to play and survived a frantic last-ditch comeback effort for a 61-54 victory over Wisconsin.
Butler forced eight first-half turnovers, leading to 15 points on the other end during the first 20 minutes of play.
Matt Howard led the way with 20 points and 12 rebounds for the Bulldogs, giving Wisconsin fits on the 3-point line in the first half by slipping away from a few high-ball screens and knocking down all three of his attempts beyond the arc.
Howard shot 9-of-10 from the free throw line, recorded two steals and stayed out of foul trouble against a Wisconsin offense that failed to attack the inside.