The 2026 Basketball Without Borders All-Star Camp in Los Angeles has wrapped up, leaving a lasting impression, especially for one future Wisconsin Badger.
This prestigious camp, a hotspot for NBA scouts and personnel, offers international players a stage to showcase their talents through games and a mini-combine. Among the select few invited was a standout recruit for Wisconsin who certainly made his mark.
Jackson Ball, a promising guard from New Zealand set to join the Badgers in 2026, earned All-Star honors at the event. Standing at 6-foot-4, Ball is known for his elite scoring ability, having averaged 21 points per game with the Hawke's Bay Hawks in 2025.
Ball's performance overseas continues to build excitement for his upcoming season with Wisconsin. He’s a dynamic shooter capable of scoring from anywhere on the court, making him a potential game-changer for the Badgers’ high-octane offense. While he might not start with a major role, his fit with the team’s style is undeniable.
In 2026, Ball will join fellow Kiwi Hayden Jones on the Wisconsin roster. Jones, currently averaging 1.9 points per game in limited action, might see increased playing time if Jack Janicki remains sidelined due to an injury against Ohio State. At just 17, Ball adds to Wisconsin's impressive track record of international recruiting.
The Badgers have a history of tapping into international talent, with players like Riccardo Greppi, Aleksas Bieliauskas, and Australian Austin Rapp. Former coach Kirk Penney, who recently returned to New Zealand, was instrumental in bringing both Jones and Ball to Wisconsin. With key players like Nick Boyd and John Blackwell moving on to professional careers, Ball and Jones are poised to seize their opportunities with the Badgers.