Wisconsin men's basketball's defense 'crucial' for ceiling as offensive production remains abundant
Michael McCleary
Updated
The Badgers were without Max Klesmit for Friday's rivalry matchup with Minnesota, but Kamari McGee contributed 15 points in his first career start with them, as Wisconsin earned contributions all throughout the lineup.
University of Wisconsin men's basketball coach Greg Gard has noted for a while that scoring isn't the way players earn their time onto the floor, despite what new players sometimes misunderstand — it's defense. Yet that fact perhaps wouldn't have mattered for junior forward Xavier Amos on Friday.
Wisconsin guard Kamari McGee, center right, reacts after a 3-point basket scored by forward Markus Ilver (35) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Minnesota, Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Kayla Wolf)
Wisconsin head coach Greg Gard, center, talks to his players during a timeout during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Minnesota, Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Kayla Wolf)
Kirk Penney, who has been around every major Badgers offensive system over the last 30 seasons, traveled the world as a player to eventually f…
Wisconsin guard Kamari McGee, center right, reacts after a 3-point basket scored by forward Markus Ilver (35) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Minnesota, Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Kayla Wolf)
Wisconsin head coach Greg Gard, center, talks to his players during a timeout during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Minnesota, Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Kayla Wolf)