Badgering: Brevin Pritzl
February 20, 2019 | Men's Basketball, Varsity Magazine
Junior guard shares his fave memories, how he stays ready, and future plans
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MADISON, Wis. — Other than the Kohl Center, what are your three favorite road venues in the Big Ten?
"Michigan State is number one for sure because of the atmosphere. The Izzone student section is right on top of you and it's always a raucous environment when we come. Maryland is number two because whenever we've been there they've had a flash mob or something big going on and it adds to the atmosphere. I'd say Michigan is number three. I've only played there once, but I like the way it's set up with the student section in your ear and its feels like everyone is on top of you."
For the Culture
— Wisconsin Basketball (@BadgerMBB) February 19, 2019
What is your favorite basketball memory in your four years at Wisconsin? What about favorite off-court memory with the team?
"Beating Villanova two years ago in the NCAA tournament. We went into the game and everyone was writing us off because we were playing the No. 1 team, but we outplayed them and got the W. For non-basketball, I'll say pretty much anytime we go bowling as a team. Everyone thinks they're good, but really only two are — Khalil Iverson and Ethan Happ … and maybe Coach Oliver — so it leads to some good trash talking. It's really just fun and a great bonding experience for the team."
What's the key to be effective when coming off the bench?
"Staying mentally engaged. You know you're not going to start, but you have to be watching the game as if you're out there playing it in. Taking the mental reps, so when the time comes, you're ready to produce."
What makes this year's team such a better defensive unit than last season?
"I think it's part of being battle-tested last year. We had a lot of young guys getting their first experience playing large minutes. There was a lot of learning and adjustments, and that's something we took hold of in the offseason. It's also a product of better communication. We're picking things up and making adjustments on the floor before the coaches even have to tell us."
You're a big Brewers fans and Spring Training has just started. What's in store for the Crew in 2019?
"I think we set a precedent for what we can expect. Last year was really fun and (Lorenzo) Cain and (Christian) Yelich were huge additions. I expect them in same position if not better this season. We really could have beaten the Dodgers, it was that close. I think they can get right back to the playoffs. I hope I can get over for few games this summer with my dad. He loves the Brewers, too."
You're only a junior eligibility-wise, but you have already graduated and you're pursuing a master's degree. What's the plan for life after Wisconsin eventually?
"I hope I can play basketball overseas for a least a little while and travel and see the world before I settle down with a career. Right now I'm pursuing a master's degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis that will help, but after my playing days are done I'll probably reapply to graduate school to get a master's in kinesiology and become a graduate assistant in a collegiate strength and conditioning department. Ultimately, I'd like to be a strength coach."
