A Strategic Shift in Recruiting
The University of Wisconsin Badgers have extended a scholarship to Cole Kelly, a highly touted four‑star wing from Illinois, following his recent campus visit.
Kelly, ranked among the top 100 prospects in the 2028 recruiting class, is listed at 6‑foot‑7 and is praised for his versatility, size and ability to score from all three levels.
The offer places Wisconsin among a growing list of programs — including Illinois, Purdue, Iowa, Ohio State and Notre Dame — that have courted the Illinois standout.
Badgers head coach Greg Gard emphasized the program’s early‑recruitment strategy, citing upcoming changes to eligibility rules and uncertainty in international scouting as key factors.
In addition to Kelly, the Badgers have identified Minnesota guard Kevin 'KJ' Wilson, in‑state forward Joey Kohnen and Arizona wing Terrance Byrd as priority targets for the upcoming cycle.