Nolan Winter has been a familiar presence on the sidelines of Wisconsin’s summer practices, his ankle injury keeping him out of the action but not out of the conversation.
The senior forward’s optimism about the upcoming season is rooted in the emergence of younger frontcourt players who have been handed expanded roles.
Injuries to Winter and his teammate Austin Rapp have inadvertently opened a pathway for forwards Will Garlock and Victory Onuetu to showcase their abilities during those workouts.
Garlock, now in his second year as a bench contributor, has been praised by Winter for ‘taking some big leaps’ in both mindset and physicality, while Onuetu brings a rugged, rim‑protecting presence that the team has been missing.
Onuetu’s journey from Hofstra, where he posted the third‑highest block rate in the Coastal Athletic Association, adds a layer of defensive stability that could complement Winter’s ability to stretch the floor.
A hopeful outlook for the Badgers' frontcourt
The Badgers also welcomed Australian freshman forward Isaac Riddle, the 14th addition to the roster, further deepening the frontcourt options.
‘I’m super pumped to be able to go out there and play with Garlock and Onuetu,’ Winter said, noting that his ankle feels good and his rehab is progressing steadily.
If the improvements Garlock and Onuetu have shown in July translate into November performances, the Badgers could see a more balanced attack that pairs interior toughness with perimeter shooting.
Coach Greg Gard and the Wisconsin staff are watching closely, confident that the blend of experience and fresh talent will give the team a solid foundation as they head into the new season.