Carter Gilmore is one of the best stories in all of college basketball. He's a player who came to Wisconsin as a walk-on, earned a scholarship, developed, played spot minutes, had opportunities to transfer but never did, allowed himself to become a walk-on again this year (with NIL money), and in five years never wavered on being a Badger. Wisconsin fans love not only that story but also his huge play in back-to-back games.
Fans were chanting MVP when he knocked in a three against Indiana. They were chanting his name when he exploded against Northwestern. It's a remarkable story that fans have rallied behind. However, it's not just the fans, his teammates are celebrating the success of whom they have affectionately nicknamed Gilly James.
"Unbelieveable" - Max Klesmit
— Kedrick Stumbris (@KedrickStumbris) February 5, 2025
"It's beautiful" - Kamari McGee
"Love it" - Nolan Winter
Three #Badgers react all at once to the beginning of a question about fans inside the Kohl Center chanting "MVP" for Carter Gilmore.
Wisconsin players are elated for teammate Carter Gilmore and his admiration among fans
In the post-game press conference, three players were represented: Nolan Winter, Kamari McGee, and Max Klesmit. A reporter asked what their thoughts were on the crowd chanting "MVP" for Carter Gilmore, and before the reporter could even finish the question, all three chimed in with their own elation. Max Klesmit said - "It's Unbelievable!" Kamari McGee said, "It's beautiful!" And Nolan Winter commented, "I love it!"
Klesmit was the first to break down a longer comment, saying, "It's hard to put into words, but I want to put Kamari in that category too. The energy level and just the commitment to everything that goes into the game plan raises. The bar does not drop; everything gets put to another level. It's just the work finally showing... We are all happy! I don't want to speak for everyone, but it's awesome!"
Nolan responded with, "It's awesome to see for sure!"
Carter Gilmore had another important game off the bench, playing for 19 minutes and 10 points. He knocked down 3-3 from three-point land to help extend a huge lead over Indiana. His play and his story continue to remind fans how incredible this Wisconsin team is.