The Wisconsin Badgers are starting to look like a team coming into form-and not a moment too soon. Winners of four straight, they’re finding their rhythm midway through the season, and a big reason why is the way their transfer additions are settling in. Each has taken a different path, but together, they’re reshaping this roster into one that could be dangerous come March.
Let’s break down how each of the four transfers has performed so far-and what it might mean for the Badgers as the season heats up.
Nick Boyd: The Engine That’s Driving Wisconsin
Nick Boyd has been everything Wisconsin hoped for-and then some. He’s leading the team in both scoring and assists, and it’s not just about the numbers. Boyd brings a level of intensity and leadership from the point guard spot that’s hard to quantify but easy to feel when you watch the Badgers play.
Sure, he can be streaky at times, but when the offense stalls, Boyd is often the one who steps up and gets things moving. Whether it’s creating his own shot or setting up teammates like John Blackwell and Max Klesmit, Boyd has become the heartbeat of this team. If Wisconsin is going to make noise in the NCAA Tournament, it’s hard to imagine that happening without Boyd leading the charge.
AJ Rohde: The Glue Guy Every Team Needs
AJ Rohde isn’t lighting up the scoreboard, but that’s not his role-and that’s perfectly fine. He’s doing the little things that don’t always show up in highlight reels but make a real impact. Top three on the team in both assists and steals, Rohde has carved out a niche as a dependable, do-it-all wing who brings stability on both ends of the floor.
There’s a trust factor with Rohde. Head coach Greg Gard knows he can count on him to make the right play, defend his position, and keep the offense flowing.
He may not be a go-to scorer, but if Wisconsin needed him to be, he’s got the tools. For now, he’s thriving in his role-and every good team needs a guy like that.
Camren Carrington: Heating Up at the Right Time
Carrington has been a late bloomer this season, but he’s heating up-and fast. Averaging 13 points per game over his last three outings, he’s becoming a reliable scoring threat, especially from deep. His 41.8% mark from three leads all Badgers with at least five attempts, and that kind of efficiency is going to be crucial as the season winds down.
He came to Wisconsin with a job to do, and right now, he’s doing it with confidence. The Badgers are going to need his shooting to stretch defenses and open up the floor for Boyd and Blackwell. If Carrington stays hot, he could be a real X-factor in Big Ten play and beyond.
Noah Rapp: Still Looking for His Footing
It’s been a tougher road for Noah Rapp. He’s seen his role diminish as the season has gone on, and after missing most of early January due to injury, he’s got some ground to make up. Shooting just 38% from the field, Rapp hasn’t quite found his rhythm at this level yet.
It’s possible the early expectations were a bit high, or maybe he was asked to do too much too soon. Either way, there’s still time for Rapp to turn things around. He’ll need to boost his efficiency and prove he can contribute consistently if he wants to earn more minutes down the stretch.
Final Takeaway:
The transfer portal has been kind to Wisconsin this season, with Boyd emerging as a star and key contributions coming from Rohde and Carrington. Rapp’s story is still being written, but even if he doesn’t become a major piece, the Badgers are clearly benefiting from the added depth and versatility.
With the Big Ten grind in full swing and March creeping closer, this group of transfers might just be the difference between a solid season and a special one.