Davidson continues dream run into Elite Eight

DETROIT (Reuters) - The Davidson Wildcats continued their dream run into the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament on Friday, taking another notable scalp with a 73-56 upset win over third-seeded Wisconsin Badgers.

The Wildcats, seeded 10th in the Midwest Region, were joined in the last eight by South Region second seed Texas Longhorns, who booked their place with an equally convincing 82-62 win over the third seed Stanford Cardinals.

Davidson, a tiny liberal arts school with the small enrolment (1,700) and high tuition ($41,000) better known for its free laundry service for students than its basketball program, has become this season's feel good story.

A David among NCAA Goliaths, Davidson arrived in the Sweet 16 in impressive style, knocking off seventh seed Gonzaga and second seed Georgetown, but produced its best against the favored Badgers.

Once again Davidson was led by a dazzling display for sharp-shooting Stephen Curry, who scored a game-high 33 points.

The son of former NBA player Dell Curry, the Davidson sophomore has been the tournament's offensive sensation, pouring in 103 points in three games.

The crowd of 57,028 at Ford Field, home of NFL team the Detroit Lions, included a vocal contingent of Davidson students, who took advantage of their school's offer a free bus trip to Detroit, hotel rooms and tickets to anyone wanting to cheer on their team.

The Wildcats made the long trip from just outside Charlotte, North Carolina worthwhile for their supporters.

Tied 36-36 at the half, the Wildcats roared out of the break with a 10-2 run to take charge and continued to punish the reeling Badgers, opening a 67-48 advantage with just under 10 minutes to play and cruising to a comfortable 17 point victory.

Davidson will face the winner between number one seed Kansas and Villanova, who play later on Friday in the Midwest Regional final, on Sunday for a spot in the Final Four.

(Editing by Ed Osmond)