Greg Gard letting the top talent leave home will keep infuriating fans

3-star Zavier Zens chose to commit to Illinois over Wisconsin. The Badgers made Zens’ top three, with a decision to come later this week. Could Zens be the first Wisconsin Mr. Basketball to sign with Wisconsin since La Crosse Central’s Johnny Davis in 2020?   

However, hopes for Zens joining Wisconsin ended on Friday, when he announced his commitment to Wisconsin’s rival. It's another example of in-state talent leaving for other programs, and it's frustrating fans. Especially because Zens chose Illinois, and also because Gard was late in the recruitment process for Zens.

Zavier Zens spurns Wisconsin for Illinois

After Ben Jacobson left Northern Iowa to become the head coach of Utah State, 2026 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball Zavier Zens reopened his recruitment. The Wisconsin Badgers made a push to land the star forward from Wisconsin Lutheran High School. Despite getting an offer from Wisconsin, Illinois also offered Zens. 

Illinois led for Zens on Friday, as Badgers247 contributors Jon McNamara and Nick Osen both predicted an Illinois commitment. Later that day, Zens made his choice official and announced his commitment on X. 

In a phone interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Zens explained why he signed with the Fighting Illini:

“What I was looking for was the best chance to develop, become the best player I can become. Illinois, they arguably have the best team in the country coming in next year, and the chance to get to go up against them every day, along with the good development program and their record of developing guys, was really big to me. Obviously the fit and culture was right as well."

So, where do the Wisconsin Badgers go from here?

The Badgers remain active in the transfer portal this offseason. Wisconsin landed itsfirst portal commitment in George Washington guard Trey Autry. However, more work is needed on the 2026-27 roster. One player Badger fans might be interested in is St. Thomas star Nolan Minessale, who has received interest from both Marquette and Wisconsin. 

While Zens’ commitment to Illinois was predicted, Wisconsin fans are understandably disappointed to see a top in-state player join a Big Ten rival. Moving forward, Greg Gard and his staff will likely continue to explore players in the transfer portal to strengthen next season’s roster.  

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