A new era of Badger basketball
Wisconsin’s men’s basketball team has assembled a 2027 recruiting class that ranks among the most coveted in recent memory, headlined by two top‑100 prospects: Jalen Brown and Baboucarr Ann. Their commitments signal a bold step for the Badgers, who have not seen a Wisconsin‑born player of that caliber pledge to the program in more than ten years.
Adding to the excitement, Jack Thelen has also secured a spot in the class, becoming the latest in‑state standout to choose Madison. Thelen’s decision underscores the program’s growing appeal within the state’s rich talent pool.
Early interest in the 2028 class
Beyond the 2027 cohort, the Badgers have already begun courting the next wave of talent. Joey Kohnen, a 6‑foot‑5 guard from Slinger, received an offer in October and is now weighing options that include Notre Dame, Nebraska, Iowa State and Iowa.
Meanwhile, Kevin Wilson, a 5‑foot‑11 guard from the Minneapolis‑St. Paul area, earned his first Big Ten offer after an impressive showing at a University of Wisconsin advanced camp. Wilson’s rise reflects the staff’s willingness to scout athletes beyond traditional hotbeds.
Cole Kelly, a 6‑foot‑7 prospect from Naperville, Illinois, announced his offer on June 24, joining a growing list of Big Ten suitors that also includes Marquette and several other conference powers.
The early outreach to 2028 candidates is not incidental; it is part of a deliberate strategy by Coach Greg Gard’s staff to build pipelines with Minnesota‑based AAU programs that already feature Ann and Thelen. This network approach has already yielded commitments from Minnesota talents Jack Thelen and Baboucarr Ann.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the Badgers’ recruiting board fills with versatile guards and wings, each bringing a blend of size, skill and competitive fire. The influx of talent promises to revitalize the roster and could translate into a competitive edge in upcoming seasons.
As the recruiting cycle progresses, the Badgers’ ability to attract elite prospects from across the Midwest will be a key indicator of the program’s trajectory under Gard’s leadership.