The Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball team has a storied history in the NCAA Tournament, marked by significant achievements and consistent performances. Under the leadership of Head Coach Greg Gard, the Badgers have continued this tradition, showcasing resilience and competitiveness on the national stage.
Historical Overview
The Badgers’ journey in NCAA basketball dates back to 1898. Over the years, they have amassed an impressive record, reflecting their enduring presence in college basketball. Notably, Wisconsin clinched the national championship in 1941, a testament to their early prominence in the sport.
In recent decades, the Badgers have been a formidable force in the NCAA Tournament:
Final Four Appearances: The team reached the Final Four in 2000, 2014, and 2015, underscoring their ability to compete at the highest levels.
Consistent Tournament Participation: Wisconsin has participated in the NCAA Tournament 27 times, boasting a tournament record of 40–26.
Era of Coach Greg Gard
Greg Gard assumed the role of head coach in December 2015, following the departure of Bo Ryan. Since then, Gard has solidified Wisconsin’s status as a competitive program:
Overall Record: As of March 2025, Gard has achieved a coaching record of 212–116, reflecting a winning percentage of approximately .646.
NCAA Tournament Performance: Under Gard’s guidance, the Badgers have made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 berth in 2016 and consistent qualifications in subsequent years.
Recent Seasons:
2023–24: The team finished with a 22–14 record, advancing to the NCAA Tournament but exiting in the first round.
2024–25: Wisconsin secured a 26–9 record, earning a No. 3 seed in the East Region of the NCAA Tournament.
2025 NCAA Tournament Outlook
In the 2024–25 season, the Badgers’ performance earned them a No. 3 seed in the East Region of the NCAA Tournament. This seeding reflects their strong season and positions them as contenders in the tournament.
As the Badgers prepare for the upcoming challenges, fans and analysts alike are optimistic about their prospects, given their historical resilience and recent form under Coach Gard’s leadership.