Wisconsin Basketball: Analyzing the 2019-20 roster and projected rotation

Wisconsin basketball is entering a new era following Ethan Happ’s graduation. Which players make up the roster and how might the rotation shake out?

Wisconsin basketball has widely been known as one of the most consistent programs in the nation throughout the 21st century. The Badgers have reached the NCAA Tournament in just about every year and they have also made some deep runs to solidify their position among the country’s elite. With that said, though, the program is entering into a new era this coming season as Ethan Happ has graduated as the last-remaining major holdover from the Bo Ryan coaching era.

As a result, almost the entire rotation is made up of players who have only competed under head coach Greg Gard. The Badgers were one of the premier programs in the nation under Coach Ryan and it will be interesting to see if that run continues now that the transition period is complete. Additionally, adjusting to life without Happ will not be easy as the big man held down the paint as one of the best players in the entire country throughout Gard’s first three full years as leader. It is also important to mention that the program also lost full-time starter Khalil Iverson to graduation as well.

Wisconsin returns 69.7% of its total minutes from this past season but their two losses are going to be difficult to recover from. In order for the Badgers to remain a competitor for an NCAA Tournament bid this season, several players will need to make internal developments. This is especially true with regards to their starting returning backcourt (Trice/Davison) as well as Happ’s replacement (Reuvers). Wisconsin also has a top-200 freshman coming in with high hopes of making an immediate impact.

Now, without any further ado, let’s dive into analyzing each of the key roster members this year, a potential rotation, and some of the outlook for the season.