Baboucarr Ann, a 6‑foot‑5 wing from Maple Grove High School, announced his commitment to the University of Wisconsin on Wednesday, choosing the Badgers over the home‑state Gophers.
The decision follows a whirlwind recruitment that included multiple unofficial trips to Minnesota, a scholarship offer from Wisconsin in October, and the influence of former Badgers star Brad Davison, who now works as a recruiter and mentor.
The Ripple Effect of a Commitment
Davison’s presence in the program has become a decisive factor for many of the state’s elite prospects, and his relationship with Ann helped tip the scales in Wisconsin’s favor.
The ripple effect extends to other top Minnesota talents, including Kyan Evans, Jaylen Crocker-Johnson and Bobby Durkin, who are watching the fallout as they finalize their own choices.
Nevertheless, the Gophers have secured a solid 2026 class, adding Nolen Anderson from Wayzata and Cedric Tomes from East Ridge, while also landing local standout Jack Thelen, a teammate of Ann, to the fold.
Coach Niko Medved, who has been guiding the Gophers’ recruiting efforts, will now look to leverage these additions while navigating the loss of Ann and the broader competition from Wisconsin.
The NCAA’s recent five‑for‑five eligibility ruling may provide the program with additional flexibility in building depth, a potential boon for future roster construction.