Despite loss in NIT opener, Phoenix men celebrate milestone year

Playing for the first time in three seasons without star point guard Keifer Sykes, the Green Bay men struggled and dropped an 80-65 decision to visiting Belmont Tuesday night in the opening round of the National Invitation Tournament. Two days later, there’s time to reflect on a 24-7 season highlighted by the program’s first regular season title and first appearance in a major tournament in 18 years. “We made a big step forward as a program this year,” said Coach Brian Wardle. “We won a lot of games, set some records and did some things that haven’t been done in this program for a long time. We did some things this year that we can build on, and I’m very proud of the group of players and coaches.” The Horizon title, votes in national polls, media attention, wins over conference champions Virginia and Tulsa, a strong performance in the Great Alaska Shootout, a record crowd for Wisconsin, a sweep of the league’s major postseason honors and the opportunity to host the Horizon League Championship and the NIT were among the highlights. Read more.