Former Badger Tyler Wahl is now a champion in the Croatian League for KK Zadar, a team that has proven to be somewhat unstoppable in Croatia's top league. This is their third straight title, and Wahl played a huge role in their success this season, averaging over 26 minutes a game.
KK Zadar was able to secure the championship with a win over ZZ Split in overtime, where Wahl played for 33 minutes and scored eight points and eight rebounds. For a recruit that barely made a trip to play from his high school basketball to his college basketball a quick trip across state lines from Minnesota to Wisconsin. The overseas journey was a significant change for him, but it worked out to the tune of a championship.
Tyler Wahl just added international champion to his résumé. 🇭🇷
— Dillon Graff (@DillonGraff) June 16, 2025
The former Wisconsin #Badgers forward helped KK Zadar secure their third straight Croatian League title. pic.twitter.com/17vs3oDbkm
Tyler Wahl is a Croatian League Champion for KK Zadar
He's now the second former Badger to win a championship overseas this season. Joining Nigel Hayes-Davis, who helped his team Fenerbahce Beko secure a Euro League title. Hayes-Davis even earned Final Four MVP honors for his play in those final games to bring home the championship back to Istanbul.
Wahl had a good season for KK Zadar, averaging 26.4 minutes with 10.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. He played the fourth most minutes for his team in an essential role in the starting lineup.
According to original reports of Wahl's deal, he signed a one-year deal with KK Zadar with an option for a second. There's no word yet on whether he plans to stay in Croatia for another season. He could use his strong play this season to see what other international options are available to him.
As a five-year player for the Badgers, he's much beloved. While most of us have never heard of KK Zadar or the Croatian League, it's cool to see your former players win championships.