In a recent media session, Greg Gard provided updates on the Wisconsin Badgers' lineup, revealing that Jack Janicki will be sidelined for the remainder of the regular season, and possibly the postseason. Additionally, Gard addressed Austin Rapp's recent absence due to illness. Rapp, who had previously battled the flu, experienced a relapse but is now on the mend, regaining his strength and endurance daily.
Gard didn't hold back when discussing the team's recent struggles, using a clever play on words to describe a "contagious" issue plaguing the Badgers-not the flu, but a lack of physicality. Against Ohio State, Gard noted that the team's non-aggressive and non-physical play was a widespread problem.
"Talk about contagious," Gard remarked. "Playing non-aggressive and non-physical.
We all had that. It spread throughout the team, so hopefully we've flushed that out and we are ready to get back on track."
Looking ahead to their matchup against Iowa, Gard emphasized the need for Wisconsin to bring a more physical presence to the court. Unlike Rapp's illness, the sluggish mindset wasn't isolated to one or two players; it affected the entire team, contributing to a slow start that Ohio State capitalized on. "Ohio State took advantage," Gard admitted, highlighting the importance of setting the tone early in games.
Wisconsin has demonstrated their potential to compete with any team when they play with aggression and tenacity. They've secured impressive victories, including handing No.
1 Michigan its only loss of the season. However, inconsistency has been a challenge, as evidenced by a 17-point loss to the Buckeyes.
Gard is hopeful that the team has left their lackluster effort behind in Ohio and is ready to bring their best against Iowa.
As the Badgers prepare for this crucial game, Gard's message is clear: it's time to reclaim their identity as a physically dominant team and approach each game with the intensity needed to succeed.