Greg Gard, the head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers, has allegedly agreed to a 10-year contract extension, reiterating his commitment to the University of Wisconsin. This is a huge milestone for collegiate basketball. This choice highlights Gard’s commitment to the Badgers, as he reportedly declined a hefty $49.85 million offer from a prestigious college basketball program.
Gard has played a key role in keeping Wisconsin competitive in the Big Ten Conference since taking over as head coach in 2015. The Badgers have won two Big Ten regular-season titles and qualified for several NCAA Tournaments under his direction. In 2020 and 2022, he was named the Big Ten Coach of the Year twice for his coaching prowess.
The university’s faith in Gard’s plan for the program is demonstrated by the reported 10-year extension. Although the extension’s precise financial terms have not been made public, Gard is anticipated to rank among the conference’s highest-paid coaches as a result. This move ensures stability and continuity for the Badgers, providing a solid foundation for future recruiting and player development.
Gard’s decision to decline a substantial offer from another top-tier program highlights his loyalty to Wisconsin. This gesture resonates deeply with the university community and the fan base, reflecting a shared commitment to the values and culture that define Badgers basketball.
Gard’s coaching abilities have received national recognition in the current season. He was considered for the coveted Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year award for the second time in four seasons when he was added to the 2025 Watch List. With a 21-5 record and an 11th-place ranking in the AP Poll, the Badgers have surpassed expectations. This success is particularly noteworthy given the significant roster changes and the team’s projected 12th-place finish in the Big Ten preseason polls.
Gard’s flexibility and inventiveness have been essential to the Badgers’ success. In order to create a more professional model, he reorganized his coaching team, adding positions like offensive coordinator and chief of staff. Since their run for the national championship in 2014–15, Wisconsin has had one of their most potent offenses thanks to these tactical changes.