As the Badgers prepare to take on Duke’s Blue Devils in what could be their first NCAA championship win in more than 70 years, representatives from Wisconsin and North Carolina have decided to make this game about much more than a national title.
For Wisconsin, that means a shit ton of cheese.
Madison Mayor Paul Soglin and Durham, North Carolina, Mayor Bill Bell have made their own wagers on the the game. Soglin is wagering 25 pounds of Wisconsin’s finest cheese while Bell is offering up North Carolina barbecue.
According to a statement from the mayor’s office, Soglin is confident in the Badgers’ abilities.
“I made a wager on behalf of the Badgers. By the end of the week, I expect to be dining on Durham barbecue and our own Colby jack,” Soglin said.
https://twitter.com/Paulsoglin/status/584575133274218496
The mayors aren’t the only ones betting on the game.
Congressman Mark Pocan, D-Wis., also wagered Wisconsin cheese on the game against Congressman G.K. Butterfield, D-N.C., who also offered North Carolina barbecue, in addition to coleslaw and iced tea.
Both congressmen know there is a lot at stake, however their confidence in their respective teams is unwavering.
“I don’t have to remind my good friends, Rep. Pocan, that Duke basketball is led by the incomparable Coach K., the winningest coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball history,” Butterfield said in a statement.
Pocan countered by saying the Badgers have proven themselves as a team to be reckoned with.
“After a long season, I know Coach Bo Ryan and his team are ready to bring the championship trophy home to Madison. Go Bucky!”
We did it! #gobadgers #MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/sb3CNKOu4N
— Rep. Mark Pocan (@RepMarkPocan) April 5, 2015
Finally, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker wagered in on tonight’s game against North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory.
In a statement, Walker offered up an assortment Wisconsin’s finest cheese, sausage and root beer. McCrory offered, you guessed it, North Carolina barbecue.
Walker said this is Wisconsin’s year for victory.
We're going to the #NCAAFInals! I couldn't be prouder of @BadgersMBB team. Two straight trips to #FinalFour and now the finals! -SKW
— Scott Walker (@ScottWalker) April 5, 2015
“Duke is a formidable opponent, but this is Wisconsin’s year to bring home the victory. Make ‘em believe!”
And believe Wisconsin will.
The Badgers tipoff against the Blue Devils tonight at 8:18 p.m.