The Wisconsin Badgers are making moves-and not just on the court. After a season that saw freshman setter Addy Horner step up in a big way during Charlie Fuerbringer’s injury absence, the program is now reshaping its future at the position.
Horner, who played a key role during that stretch, entered the transfer portal just a day after Wisconsin’s season ended in a tough NCAA Tournament loss to Kentucky. With Fuerbringer still holding two more years of eligibility, Horner’s decision to seek a new opportunity makes sense from a playing time perspective.
But Wisconsin didn’t scramble to find an immediate replacement in the portal. Instead, the Badgers are playing the long game-and they landed a big one.
On Tuesday, Wisconsin secured a verbal commitment from Isabelle Hoppe, the No. 3 setter in the 2026 recruiting class. Hoppe had originally committed to Pitt, but after the Panthers picked up Penn State transfer setter Izzy Starck, she requested a release from her National Letter of Intent. That opened the door, and Wisconsin didn’t hesitate.
Hoppe isn’t just a solid pickup-she’s one of the best in the country. Ranked No. 21 overall in the 2026 class by PrepDig and the third-best setter nationally, she brings elite pedigree and polish to a program that continues to stack talent. Her commitment not only fills the void left by Horner, but also strategically spaces out eligibility between her and Fuerbringer, giving the Badgers a smoother long-term transition at the position.
This is a move that speaks to Wisconsin’s sustained recruiting power. Hoppe becomes the fifth member of what’s shaping up to be a powerhouse 2026 class. She joins outside hitters Halle Thompson and Audrey Flanagan, along with middle blockers Lynney Tarnow and Kymora Scott-a group that’s already drawing serious attention for its depth and upside.
While the Badgers didn’t dip into the portal to replace Horner directly, the addition of Hoppe sets them up for continued success at setter, and shows that the program is thinking two steps ahead. With Fuerbringer still leading the charge and Hoppe waiting in the wings, Wisconsin’s setter room is in good hands for years to come.