Looking Ahead: Projected Badger Basketball Lineup for 2024
As we enter the summer break, anticipation for the upcoming college basketball season is building, particularly for the Wisconsin Badgers. With key players like AJ Storr and Chucky Hepburn heading out, the team’s composition is set for a significant transformation. Let’s dive into what we might expect from this year’s squad as we analyze a potential starting lineup.
Excitement builds for the Badgers’ 2024 season.
No. 1 Guard: Camren Hunter
Starter: Camren Hunter
Hunter, a transfer from Central Arkansas, steps onto the court with aspirations to make an immediate impact. Although last season wasn’t on his resume due to injury, his previous stats paint an impressive picture: 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in 2022. His experience and skill set make him a reliable choice for head coach Greg Gard to direct the offense.
Backup: Daniel Freitag
Freitag, a promising freshman, is keen to prove himself this year. Following Hepburn’s exit, he’s been pushing for a starting spot. However, Coach Gard may prioritize Hunter’s veteran presence in the initial lineup. Such decisions highlight the strategic balancing act between experience and potential.
No. 2 Guard: Max Klesmit
Starter: Max Klesmit
One of the bright spots last season, Klesmit returns as a reliable guard who has opted not to enter the transfer portal. With an average of 9.7 points and solid contributions in rebounds and assists, he’s poised to play a pivotal role in the backcourt, bringing stability to the offense.
Backup: Jack Robison
Robison’s journey remains somewhat of a mystery, but this could be his year to shine. As he looks to carve out his niche within the rotation, fans will be eager to see what he can offer.
New faces and returning talent create a buzz for the Badgers.
Small Forward: John Tonje
Starter: (Projected) John Tonje
Tonje has been a hot topic among fans as he’s rumored to commit to the Badgers via the transfer portal. His prior season with Colorado State showcased his ability to score (averaging 14.6 points per game) and contribute on the boards. If he commits, expect a significant uptick in offensive production from this position.
Backup: John Blackwell
Blackwell had a promising 2023 season, providing quality shooting off the bench. Coach Gard faces the challenge of keeping him engaged while maintaining balance across the roster.
Power Forward: Xavier Amos
Starter: Xavier Amos
Amos, a 6’8” versatile talent, will be essential in the frontcourt. After posting numbers of 13.8 points and nearly 6 rebounds per game last year at NIU, his ability to shoot from beyond the arc will offer a fresh dynamic, allowing more space for other shooters and driving lanes for guards like Hunter.
Backup: Carter Gilmore
Gilmore returns to enrich the bench squad, providing depth and experience. While he may not claim the starting role this season, his input will undoubtedly be valuable in crucial moments.
The Badgers look to blend experience with new talent this season.
Center: Steven Crowl
Starter: Steven Crowl
Crowl’s offensive performance in 2023 held promise, but the upcoming campaign demands an increase in defensive intensity. His ability to stretch the floor will complement the Badgers’ shooters, creating more opportunities as teams struggle to defend against him and Amos on the perimeter.
Backup: Nolan Winter
As Winter steps back into his role, he’s focused on progression. His development this season will be critical not only for his future with the team but also in solidifying the center position for the Badgers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the coming season for the Badgers offers a mix of excitement and uncertainty. With strategic player additions and a blend of returning talents, this projected lineup has the potential to capture the spirit of Badger basketball. Following these players throughout the season will be thrilling as we watch them develop and adapt.
The anticipation is palpable as we prepare for what may well be a defining chapter in Wisconsin’s storied basketball legacy!
