Two senior standouts from Maple Grove High School have officially verbalized their intentions to join the University of Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball program.
Baboucarr Ann, who posted 19 points and four assists per game as a junior, and Jack Thelen, who contributed 14 points and nine rebounds per contest, both cited the Badgers’ tradition and coaching staff as decisive factors in their decisions.
A Recruiting Boost
The commitments mark a significant addition to Wisconsin’s roster, bolstering the team’s frontcourt depth and perimeter scoring ahead of the upcoming season.
Ann’s junior season saw him average 19 points and four assists, while Thelen’s numbers included 14 points and nine rebounds per game, helping the Crimson finish fourth in the state’s Class AAAA division.
Brad Davison, a former Maple Grove star and current Badgers assistant coach, played a pivotal role in connecting the recruits with the program, leveraging his own experience as a Badgers alumnus to build trust.
Both players expressed excitement about continuing their development under Wisconsin’s coaching staff, with Ann noting his desire to enhance his playmaking abilities and Thelen highlighting his focus on contributing rebounding and defensive intensity.
The Badgers’ fan base anticipates a fresh infusion of talent, and analysts expect the new recruits to make an immediate impact in the competitive Big Ten conference.