The Wisconsin men's basketball team has held open offseason practices this past week for the media to observe. With media availability afterwards for both players and Greg Gard himself. The highlights seem to revolve around the new players and the excitement they bring to this new look offense. However, one matchup continues to spark considerable attention. The 1v1s in the practices of John Blackwell and Nick Boyd. Greg Gard's two alphas.
"I've intentionally kept them on opposite teams just because they’re both alphas. To have them spar off or face off against each other is good. I think it's good for both of them to keep pushing each other's bar a little higher."Greg Gard
John Blackwell and Nick Boyd are now the alphas of Wisconsin basketball
John Blackwell was phenomenal last season, but often played a backseat to John Tonje in the offensive attack. Tonje went on to be drafted by the Utah Jazz, and while Blackwell flirted with jumping into the NBA Draft, he ultimately decided it would be better for him to stay at Wisconsin for another season.
While Tonje got much of the nation's attention throughout the season last year, Blackwell had eight games with more than 20 points, and two of those were 30+. He showcased the ability to take over games and was really dominant when the Badgers needed him. Now, he gets to be the leader this season with one caveat. He's going to share some of that load with Nick Boyd.
Nick Boyd is a transfer from San Diego State, where he was the best guard on the team. He also had multiple 20+ point scoring nights, with three on the season, and according to early reports, his game speed is next-level. He can flip a gear and just absolutely wreck a defense and get by defenders. His explosion to the hoop is going to really turn some heads this season.
The Wisconsin Badgers are better with two alphas, and both will push the other to keep elevating their games, which is exactly Greg Gard's plan right now.