The 2023-24 season was a moderate success for the Wisconsin Badgers. The program found success in the regular season against one of the nation’s toughest schedules. It electrified fans with a deep run in the Big Ten Tournament and returned to the NCAA Tournament.
The bad news: The Badgers lost to James Madison in the round of 64 and extended its Sweet 16 drought to seven years.
Related: A look at how Wisconsin basketball is reloading its future in 2024, 2025
Hopefully, the fan base’s agitation subsides in the coming weeks and excitement for the 2024-25 campaign grows. Greg Gard returns nearly every top contributor for 2024-25 and is sure to continue to bolster the team in the transfer portal.
Tyler Wahl is the one departure due to graduation though a few others are sure to come in the portal. But the core of the 2023-24 team is sticking around and should be better in 2024-25.
Related: Wisconsin social media dispirited after Badgers’ season-ending loss to James Madison
Here is an early look at Wisconsin basketball’s roster entering 2024-25:
Note: this list does not include walk-ons or Wisconsin’s future transfer portal activity. It also is projection — there could be some members of the roster that transfer away this offseason)
Connor Essegian #3 of the Wisconsin Badgers reacts after a made three point shot by Steven Crowl during the first half of the game at Kohl Center on March 14, 2023 in Madison, Wisconsin. John Fisher/Getty Images
2023-24 averages: 7.3 minutes, 3.2 points, 0.8 rebounds, 0.2 assists, 38.5% shooting, 30% from 3.
It was a disappointing sophomore campaign for Essegian after a terrific first year at Wisconsin. He recently said he wouldn’t transfer, so hopefully a big jump is in store in 2024-25.
March 7, 2024; Madison, Wisconsin; Wisconsin Badgers guard Kamari McGee (4) reacts to causing a turnover against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half at the Kohl Center. Kayla Wolf-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 averages: 8.2 minutes, 2.0 points, 0.8 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 54.5% shooting, 30% from 3.
McGee was one of 2023-24’s biggest surprises. He emerged as the team’s primary backup point guard — and his value became clear when the team struggled during his extended absence.
Chris Hodges #21 of the Wisconsin Badgers shoots a free throw during the second half of the game against the UW-Eau Claire Blugolds at Kohl Center on Oct. 30, 2022 in…
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