Wisconsin Basketball: Previewing the Badgers’ 2017 recruiting class

SG Kobe King – La Crosse, WI

247Sports: ∗∗∗, #199      ESPN: ∗∗∗∗

A very solid overall offensive player, Kobe King brings a versatile and polished offensive game to the wing for the Badgers. He can score from just about anywhere on the court and has no difficulty either stepping up for a big three or attacking the basket for the old-fashioned three-point play. King stands at 6’4″ and definitely has the size to play as an off-ball guard. In his final high school season, King averaged 27.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Playing for La Crosse Central, King ended his high school campaign as a state champion and winner of the Mr. Basketball award in the state of Wisconsin.

Just like Davison, King will likely see a lot of time during his freshman season while coming off of the bench. Brevin Pritz will enter the season as the starting shooting guard, but after an inconsistent season in 2016-17, it is possible that King could take that spot. It is not common for a freshman to start for Wisconsin, but with the youth on this team, King’s innate scoring abilities could be needed to start each game. Regardless of who takes the starting position, though, King should see substantial minutes right away due to his athleticism (which could bring about a solid defensive game) and his ability to score in a variety of ways.

Next: Looking at Wisconsin's successes in the 2000's

The hope is that each of these players can come in and make an impact in their years with the program. Wisconsin’s history shows that these recruits should expect plenty of tournament games in the coming seasons. The Badgers have two Final Four appearances in recent history and head coach Greg Gard has shown that the Badgers are in good hands following the retirement of Bo Ryan. Following the play of these recruits will be fun over the next few years in Madison.