Wisconsin's Traevon Jackson returns after 19-game absence

No. 1 seed Wisconsin is getting a huge boost for its Sweet Sixteen showdown with fourth-seeded North Carolina on Thursday night.

Point guard Traevon Jackson is in the Badgers lineup after missing the last 19 games, including the first two games of the NCAA tournament.

Jackson hasn't played since fracturing his foot in a Jan. 11 loss to Rutgers. Prior to the injury, the senior was averaging 9.4 points, 2.9 assists and 1.7 rebounds in 17 games.

The return shouldn't come as a huge surprise, as Jackson told reporters Wednesday he would be back in the lineup Thursday without a minutes restriction. However, Wisconsin insisted he was still considered a game-time decision.

The Badgers didn't exactly struggle without Jackson, going 18-1 while he was sidelined. Still, his experience and leadership should be a huge asset to the team, regardless of how many minutes he ends up playing.

Jackson came  off the bench for Wisconsin with Bronson Koenig continuing to start. Jackson hit a 3-pointer in his first shot from the field.