Wisconsin Badgers' Jack Janicki started the season as a walk-on but played himself into some minutes early in the season. He then continued to gain more and more playing time and contributed off the bench in big ways for the Badgers. He finished the season playing double-digit minutes in the last 10 of 11 games through the Big Ten Tournament. He was a big spark off the bench and became a fan favorite with his hustle and energy.
While many assumed he would be back with the Badgers for the next season, there was no guarantee, especially with him being a walk-on. He may have enjoyed the fruit of his labor and gone onto the market to see what sort of NIL money he could get. However, today he posted on Instagram, "The grass is greener where you water it." Officially announcing his return to Wisconsin.
And now Jack Janicki announces he’s back with the #Badgers. Wisconsin keeps the good news rolling on a Friday. pic.twitter.com/c15FyA2AdO
— Michael McCleary (@MikeJMcCleary) April 4, 2025
Jack Janicki has announced his return for another year as a Wisconsin Badger
Jack Janicki's post signals a move that may not only be big news for Wisconsin fans but also for him. He looks to have signed a deal, and the anticipation and expectation is that he will no longer be a walk-on next season. This is impressive as he started the season, unknown what sort of role he would have or even if he would play at all. Now he is going into his true sophomore season with the expectation from Greg Gard and Wisconsin fans to be a key contributor off the bench.
Last season, Janicki averaged 1.9 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. His stats don't quite do his play justice, as he made huge plays in key moments. He even had a game in which he chipped his front tooth going for a rebound. He's a spark plug for this Badgers team, and it was important for Gard to get him another season at Wisconsin.