MILWAUKEE — The Wisconsin Badgers got a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament after losing to Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament championship game.

But the Badgers aren’t coming to Milwaukee.

They have to play Montana Thursday in Denver.

That’s a quick turnaround and a long way from Fiserv Forum. I realize you don’t necessarily want to reward a third seed, but you shouldn’t penalize them either. 

Marquette is a No. 7 seed and will play New Mexico, coached by former Minnesota coach and Rick’s son, Richard Pitino, Friday in Cleveland.

Head coach Shaka Smart and the Golden Eagles are rightfully proud of a senior class that has made four straight NCAA tournaments, but Smart also said Marquette isn’t just happy to be there, they want to do something in the tournament.

Possibly having to face No. 2 seeded Michigan State in the second round will be a challenge.

Wisconsin head coach Greg Gard took the high road in not being sour about being sent to Denver instead of Milwaukee. If they get past Montana, they would face BYU or VCU. If the Badgers shoot like they did in Indianapolis against UCLA or Michigan State, they can beat anybody.

If they shoot like they did against Michigan (22%), they’re vulnerable. 

Will either Wisconsin or Marquette make the Sweet 16? If you go by seeds, the Badgers have the better chance. We all know the beauty of the NCAA Tournament is that surprises happen.

There’s no way to script it. We’ll find out over the next week.