MADISON, Wisc. — — John Tonje scored 23 points, John Blackwell added 16 and Wisconsin took control in the second half, defeating Holy Cross for an 85-61 season-opening win on Monday night.

Nolan Winter added 15 points after making all six of his shot attempts, two of which came from outside 3-point range. Winter also made his only free throw.

Gabe Warren scored 23 points for Holy Cross and reserve Deandre Williams scored 11.

Holy Cross stunned the Badgers after using 8-9 shooting to build a 21-5 lead. Wisconsin responded by outscoring the Crusaders 20-4 after 8 1/2 minutes and making it 25-0 with 5:17 left in the first half when Tonje hit a 3-pointer. The two played back and forth until halftime and Holy Cross led 36-35 at the break.

In the second half, Tonje hit another three-pointer and followed up with a dunk to give Wisconsin a 44-40 lead, and the Badgers led the rest of the way. Blackwell's 3 minutes left gave Wisconsin its first double-digit lead at 52-40.

Tonje made two free throws with 10:13 left and Wisconsin remained ahead by double digits the entire time.

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