The Wisconsin Badgers held their first open practice of the summer, introducing eight newcomers to a roster that returns six veterans. The session was marked by a fast tempo, with coaches emphasizing ball movement and defensive rotations from the outset.
A promising start
Point guard Owen Foxwell, who arrived from the National Basketball League to fill the void left by Nick Boyd, showed poise under pressure. He threaded a crisp pass to Trey Autry for a three‑point shot and later flipped the ball to Isaac Riddle for a dunk, demonstrating both playmaking and scoring ability.
Among the transfers, Eian Elmer stood out with a confident three‑pointer from the corner, while Victory Onuetu’s length proved decisive on the boards, securing several key rebounds. Freshmen such as Jackson Ball, LaTrevion Fenderson, Isaac Riddle and Josh Manchester added energy, and Hayden Jones contributed a highlight‑reel alley‑oop to Onuetu.
Returning players including Nolan Winter, Austin Rapp, Will Garlock, Zach Kinziger, Jack Janicki and Hayden Jones brought stability, with Will Garlock’s tough lay‑up through contact and Zach Kinziger’s defensive pressure drawing praise.
The team’s defensive drills focused on swarming the perimeter and improving rotations, a theme that carried into the scrimmage. Although a few turnovers slipped through, the overall tempo remained high and the coaching staff left encouraged by the early chemistry.