Once again, Butler was involved in a nail-biter, and once again, Matt Howard made the play of the game. With 28.6 seconds remaining, Howard got an offensive rebound on a missed Butler free throw, and proceeded to make two of his own to give Butler a seven point lead late in the game.
It was too much for the Badgers, who trailed big for most of the game. The biggest factor for Wisconsin was the play of John Leuer, who was ice cold from all over the floor.
Leuer made one shot—a three pointer—and finished the game with just three points. No free throws, and he ended the game by fouling out. It was a very tough finish to a solid career.
For Butler, Matt Howard had 20 points and 12 rebounds, and continued to lead the defensive dominance that Butler has shown this whole tournament.
Butler will take on Florida, and has advanced to the Elite Eight for the second straight year.