Butchie's Den
The world of Brian Butch. Daily short content and bi-weekly long form content from former Wisconsin Badger and Pro Basketball Player Brian Butch
Mo Peterson on Dick Bennett, Howard Moore & Wisconsin Basketball's Foundation
Mo Peterson, a former Wisconsin guard from the 90s, joins Butchie to reveal how the Badgers program built its winning culture. Listen as he shares stories from the coaching transitions of Stu Jackson, Stan Van Gundy, and Dick Bennett, who famously took a team predicted for just six wins to 17 in his inaugural season.
Mo also dives into the pivotal role of Howard Moore as a mentor and teammate, Mike Finley's incredible work ethic, and the unexpected kindness of Coach Bennett off the court, especially after Mo's career-ending injury. Hear Coach Bennett's memorable "stop...
Wisconsin Hoops in the Den with Butchie & Charlie | November 11, 2026
Brian "Butchie" Butch and Charlie Wills (Wisconsin 1998-2002) break down Wisconsin basketball every Wednesday on Wisconsin Hoops in the Den.
Presented by Travis Hasse, Wisconsin entrepreneur, real estate investor, and owner of local delivery businesses.
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Kamari McGee: From Badger Spark Plug to Nordstrom Stylist
Former Badger guard Kamari McGee joins Butchie's Den to tell the story behind Coach Gard's halftime promise after his ejection at Purdue: "We're going to get this done for you." Hear what that moment meant to Kamari and the team's brotherhood.
Kamari also talks about his journey from overseas pro basketball to becoming a stylist at Nordstrom in Chicago, the Wisconsin culture that makes the program different, his first start, the Marquette court storm, and his take on teammate Carter Gilmore's celebration. Plus, a rapid-fire round on his favorite Badgers teammates.
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Mondays in the Den: Packers Roll in New England, Hopkins' Big Debut & the NFL's Wildest Week
Mondays in the Den with Butchie and special guest Steve "Czabe" Czaban. The Packers roll 45-27 in New England behind Jordan Love's 372 yards, freshman Ryan Hopkins throws three touchdowns in his first start as the Badgers clinch a bowl bid, and the Bucks fall to 1-9. Plus the curse of No. 1 in college football, Notre Dame, and the NFL's strangest moments of the week, from a loose corgi to a parking-lot brawl.
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6NtsCqcfin8
Presented by Middleton Ford, AbbyBank and Gallant Knight Limousine.
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Brewers Parade Stories, Packers at New England + Badger Hoops | Butchie's Den LIVE 11/6
Friday morning in the Den.
Lane Grindle of the Brewers broadcast team on what the World Series parade was like from the inside, the family-first culture behind the champs, and filling in on Badger basketball calls in the Bahamas.
Peter Bukowski of Locked On Packers on the offensive line, Micah Parsons' road back, the Josh Jacobs situation, and why he likes Green Bay's matchup at New England.
Plus Dr. Sam Wagner of Rehab Lab on Christian Watson playing through a rib injury, a Starting 5 that goes back to Wisconsin-Rutgers in 2004, and the mailbag.<...
Why Every Tall Athlete Needs to Hear Evan Anderson's Story
Former Badger Evan Anderson shares his deeply personal and inspirational story of how his son, Parker, unknowingly led to a life-saving diagnosis of Marfan Syndrome. Hear about Evan's journey from a Wisconsin basketball player to confronting a critical health condition that he had no symptoms for, and why awareness is crucial, especially for tall athletes.
This episode also dives into Evan's time with the Wisconsin Badgers (2010-2014): the challenges of being an in-state recruit, the unwavering support of his teammates, the mental battle of D1 hoops, and the camaraderie that defined his experience. He...
Zach Bohannon: Bo Ryan, Final Four Runs & Life as an F-35 Officer
Zach Bohannon, a captain on Wisconsin's 2014 Final Four team, shares the stories from those back-to-back runs. He recounts how he ended up a Badger after Air Force, Bo Ryan's Selection Sunday reminder that "the seed that you get is your fault," and the Milwaukee red-out crowd that carried the Badgers to the Sweet 16. Zach also explains how the team built its bond by all living in one apartment complex, tells the MBA-class story that became a team running joke, and talks about life now as a bank president and F-35 intelligence officer. Plus, his rapid-fire answers and strong endorsement...
Austin Rapp on Badger Depth, Standard & Making History in Year 2
Austin Rapp drops in to Butchie's Den for a fun conversation about his second season with the Wisconsin Badgers. Hear Rapp's candid thoughts on the team's deep roster, how Coach Gard uses exhibition games to experiment, and the importance of responding to adversity.
Austin also shares why this Badger team doesn't need a superstar, the defensive mindset, and the surprising challenges of playing mid-major opponents. Plus, a rapid-fire round with hilarious insights into his teammates!
Listen now for an inside look at Badger basketball as the season tips off.<...
Mondays in the Den: Brewers Parade, Badger Football & the Josh Jacobs Problem
Butchie and Czabe are back in the Den, and there’s plenty to get to.
They start with college basketball’s opening day and the Field of 68’s 24-hour game marathon. Then it’s coaching money gone wild: Florida State paying Mike Norvell to walk away, and what that means for Badger fans calling for Luke Fickell’s job after another loss to Iowa.
Over in Green Bay, the latest Josh Jacobs news raises a question: how much talent buys how much tolerance when the Packers still can’t run the ball?
Then it’s World Series champio...
Butchie's Den LIVE | Friday, October 30th
Butchie's Den LIVE is back! Brian "Butchie" Butch and friends get you set for the weekend in Wisconsin sports — Badgers, Packers and everything in between.
This week:
• Starting 5 — five questions to kick off the morning
• Bart Winkler (Into the Winklerverse)
• Zach Heilprin (Big Ten Network / The Zone) — Badgers at Iowa: is the College Football Playoff still in play, and why winning in Iowa City is all that matters
• Bill Schmid (Packers Radio Network) — Packers talk
• Dr. Nate Williams (Rehab Lab Wisconsin) — Zaire Franklin's shin fracture and what th...
Badger Hoops Tip-Off Show: 2026-27 Season Preview
Wisconsin basketball is back. Butchie and friends preview the 2026-27 Badgers ahead of Monday’s season opener against Denver.
On the show:
• Nick Osen, Badgers 247
• Matt Lepay, the voice of the Badgers
• Austin Rapp, Wisconsin #22
• Greg “Hoops” Peterson, Greg Peterson Sports
Greg Gard opens his 12th season in Madison at 237-128, coming off 24-11 and an NCAA round-of-64 finish. The Badgers went 3-0 in the exhibitions — 94-71 over UW-Parkside, 96-77 at Green Bay, 82-65 against Oklahoma State — averaging 90.7 points on 50.6% shooting, with the same five starting all three: Foxwell, Elmer, Winter, Onuetu and Janicki...
Jacob Harris on His Viral TD, Badger Belief & Secret Hobbies
Wisconsin Badgers TE Jacob Harris joins Butchie's Den to talk about the fun and grit of the Badger football season. Hear his hilarious take on his viral 70-yard touchdown run, the team's locker room mindset after big wins, and how they bounced back from tough losses like UCLA. Plus, Jacob reveals his surprising off-field passions: birding and his pet snake! A must-listen for Badger fans.
Listen to the full episode and follow Butchie's Den on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQeSmFDydIhmEyw) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com...
Charlie Wills on Confronting Bo Ryan & Badger Basketball's Big Ten Title Season
Charlie Wills (1998-2002) joins Butchie to share the incredible, never-before-heard story of confronting Coach Bo Ryan during a critical team moment – a confrontation that ultimately galvanized their Big Ten championship season. Hear how Charlie's era set a new standard for Wisconsin Basketball, the contrasting coaching styles of Dick Bennett and Bo Ryan, and hilarious locker room anecdotes.
This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes tales from a Badger legend: from being underestimated to claiming a Big Ten title, the emergence of Devin Harris, and the teammates who made it all possible. Plus, a rapid-fire round re...
Brewers 2-0 World Series Lead, Packers Ref Rage & Badgers Ranked!
It's a big Wisconsin sports breakdown on Butchie's Den! Chuck Freimund from Locked On Brewers joins to discuss the Brewers' dominant 2-0 World Series lead, the bullpen's incredible performance, Sal Frelick's memorable home run, and the possibility of Woody starting Game 4. Then, Butchie and Justin Holt tackle the Green Bay Packers' controversial loss, ripping into the NFL's officiating crisis and Matt LaFleur's public silence. Plus, get the scoop on the Wisconsin Badgers cracking the Top 25 and if Luke Fickell's team is built for a deep run. Listen in for fun, unfiltered Wisconsin sports talk!
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Butchie's Den LIVE - Friday, October 23rd - World Series Preview
Join former Wisconsin Badger Brian Butch for another edition of Butchie’s Den LIVE! Butchie breaks down the biggest stories across Wisconsin sports, shares his perspective from inside the game, and is joined by guests from around the sports world. From the Wisconsin Badgers to the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, and everything in between, Butchie’s Den brings you Wisconsin sports talk without the fluff. Jump into the live chat, share your takes, and be part of the show. Drop your questions in the chat or send them to the mailbag: [[email protected]](mailto:butchiesden@gmai...
Joe Krabbenhoft on Badger Basketball's Best Excuses & "Gotta Get Three"
Wisconsin Associate Head Coach Joe Krabbenhoft joins Butchie's Den for a fun, unfiltered look inside Badger basketball, from hilarious player excuses to the team's preparation for the season.
Butchie and Krabby dive into:
- The coaching perspective on exhibition games and player development.
- How the team is handling Braeden Carrington's eligibility.
- The unique toughness of the 'Kiwis' (Hayden and Jackson).
- Krabby's favorite coaching phrases and insights on Bo Ryan vs. Greg Gard.
- The all-time worst player excuse he's heard.
<...Brevin Pritzl on Badger Pressure, Coach Gard's Haircut Rule & Overseas Pro Ball
Brevin Pritzl pulls back the curtain on his Badger career and wild pro journey! The former Wisconsin guard joins Butchie's Den for a fun, honest conversation about the pressure of being an in-state recruit, adapting his game for Coach Gard (including a memorable haircut story!), and the shocking end to his senior season due to COVID.
He dives into his unique overseas experiences, from tough times in Serbia to rediscovering his love for the game in Denmark. Plus, Brevin shares his thoughts on playing for Bo Ryan and Greg Gard, beating #1 Villanova, and his...
Doug Gottlieb Recaps Green Bay vs. Wisconsin Basketball
Green Bay Phoenix Head Coach Doug Gottlieb joins Butchie's Den for a fun and candid breakdown of his team's exhibition game against the Wisconsin Badgers. Hear his honest thoughts on Green Bay's fight, Wisconsin's game adjustments, the Badgers' dominant point guard, and the lessons both teams are taking forward. This episode covers key coaching insights, the challenges of foul trouble, and a deep dive into his star player, Marcus Hall. Listen now for a unique perspective on Wisconsin college hoops.
Listen to more Butchie's Den wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts!
<...Butchie & Czabe: Mondays in the Den - October 19th 2026
Join Butchie and Czabe for a fun-filled 'Mondays in the Den' covering all things Wisconsin sports! They break down the Packers' recent surge, debating if this team is finally turning the corner and the exciting emergence of Mathew Golden.
Get Czabe's wild theory about Mike McCarthy's mysterious halftime blue tent visit, and hear their unfiltered thoughts on why NFL officiating has made the game a "tough watch," from taunting flags to absurd roughing the passer calls. They also dive into the chaos of college football replay, Czabe's take on Kirk Herbstreit, and the joy of the Brewers...
Doug Gottlieb: Green Bay Coach on Wisconsin, Marquette, & Mid-Major Survival
Butchie sits down with Green Bay Phoenix Head Coach Doug Gottlieb for an in-depth conversation about building a mid-major program, navigating tough scheduling, and a detailed scout of the Wisconsin Badgers basketball team. Gottlieb breaks down Wisconsin's roster, including key players like Foxwell, Klesmit, and Winter, and their offensive philosophy. He also discusses the strategy behind scheduling exhibition games against both Wisconsin and Marquette, the financial realities for mid-major programs, and his unique recruiting approach for in-state talent.
Listen as Coach Gottlieb shares his rapid-fire takes on the best college basketball program, underrated coaches...
John Ellenson: The UNTOLD Stories of Badger Hoops' Rise
Former Wisconsin Badger John Ellenson joins Butchie’s Den to share exclusive stories from his time playing under Coach Yoder (1988-1991), including a powerful tribute to his dominant teammate Patrick Tompkins, the thrill of beating #1 Michigan, and the tight-knit locker room that defined his era. Ellenson also opens up about his unique family journey with sons playing for rival Marquette and his post-basketball journey with Fika Spice. Listen in for a hype-filled look back at Badger basketball history.
Listen to more Butchie's Den on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
Spotify: ht...
"All The Way to State": High School Basketball's Enduring Impact on Wisconsin Communities
Join Butchie as he talks with author Nick Weisheipl about his new book, "All The Way to State." This episode goes beyond the game, exploring why high school basketball holds such a special place in Wisconsin communities.
Nick shares insights from the Altuna High School Railroaders' 1990 state tournament run, the purity of high school sports, and the lasting ripple effect on small towns. From epic rivalries to the unique perspective of a former player and coach, this conversation is a must-listen for any Wisconsin basketball fan.
Listen now and...
Badger Hoops to Business Success: Dave Mader on Lessons from Madison
Discover how former Wisconsin Badger big man Dave Mader (2000-04) leveraged lessons from coaches Bennett, Soderberg, and Ryan to build a successful career off the court. He shares insights on mental toughness, adapting to different coaching styles, and cherished Final Four memories.
Follow Butchie's Den:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9tNQSmFDydIhmEyw
Also available on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/butchies-den/id1877905664
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Isaac Riddle: Aussie Badger On Team Hype, Gard's Intensity & NIL Dreams
Get ready for an exclusive conversation with Wisconsin Badger #11 Isaac Riddle! This episode features his unique path from Australia to becoming a key part of the Badger Basketball squad. Isaac shares what it's like adjusting to college physicality, the competitive fire within the team, and what Coach Gard's intensity truly means. Hear his candid rapid-fire takes on his teammates, his surprising NIL dream, and his message to loyal Wisconsin fans. Tune in for hype, insights, and a whole lot of Badger basketball talk.
Listen to the full conversation now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!<...
Victory Onuetu on Brad Davison, Confidence & His Badger Debut
New Badger Victory Onuetu sits down with Butchie to discuss his journey from Spain to Wisconsin basketball. Hear about his unique connection with coach Brad Davison (who was once his teammate!), how the coaching staff has boosted his confidence, and what makes his physical, defensive game stand out. Plus, he talks about getting lost on campus, his love for soccer, and his unexpected hobbies like producing music and DJing.
Listen now for an exclusive look into Victory's first season with the Badgers!
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Inside Badger Basketball Practice: Sharif Chambliss on New Season Buzz
Wisconsin Badger fans, get ready for the new basketball season! Assistant Coach Sharif Chambliss joins Butchie’s Den to share exclusive insights into the team's depth, exciting player development, and what to expect from the Badgers. Butchie and Sharif dive into the intensity of early practices, the growth of players like Will Garlock and Zach Kinsinger, the team's defensive focus, and the impact of the upcoming exhibition games. Sharif also talks about Bo Ryan's recent visit and navigating the ever-changing college basketball landscape.
Tune in for an authentic, fun conversation about your Wisconsin Badgers.
...Tarek Saleh: Barry Alvarez's 'Godfather' Role & the 1994 Rose Bowl
Wisconsin football legend Tarek Saleh joins Butchie's Den to dive into the iconic 1994 Rose Bowl team, sharing incredible behind-the-scenes stories including the unforgettable, chaotic trip to Tokyo and what it took to build the foundation of Badger football. Tarek also reveals the personal mentorship of Barry Alvarez, how he earned the 'Godfather' nickname, and why his passion for Wisconsin athletics still burns bright. Plus, hear his unfiltered one-word associations for rivals like Michigan and Ohio State, and his blind ranking of Wisconsin traditions.
Listen to the full conversation to hear:
- Why...
Eian Elmer: From Transfer Portal to NBA Hopes with Wisconsin
Wisconsin transfer Eian Elmer sits down with Butchie to discuss his bold claim of being one of the best shooters in the country, his high goals for the Badgers this season, and his personal NBA dreams. Listen in as Elmer shares why Wisconsin was the ideal choice from the transfer portal, offering a program that helps players reach their full potential.
Elmer gives a candid look at Coach Greg Gard's unique coaching style, which fosters trust and leadership, and the competitive environment playing alongside Wisconsin's three 7-footers. He dives into the team's chemistry, his...
Farmer Tough: Mike Wilkinson's Wisconsin Basketball Stories
Wisconsin Hall of Famer Mike Wilkinson joins Butchie's Den for a conversation you won't want to miss. Hear the real story behind Bo Ryan's coaching tactics, including whether he ever laid into Devin Harris. Mike shares incredible tales from his 9-year overseas career, featuring everything from duct-taped airplanes to ref scandals and players running their own practices.
This episode covers:
- Life after basketball: farm, business, and family
- The transition from Dick Bennett to Bo Ryan
- Bo's unique motivational strategies
- Hilarious insider stories...
Mike Hastings: The REAL Meaning of Coaching Wisconsin Badger Hockey
Head Coach Mike Hastings joins Butchie to talk all things Wisconsin Badger Hockey! Tune in to hear his fun insights on bringing Badger alumni like Joe Pavelski and Andy Brandt back into the program, the excitement building for their Lambeau Field game, and what it truly means to lead the Wisconsin Badgers. Coach Hastings also shares his philosophy on player leadership, overcoming challenges, and what he looks for in recruits. Don't miss the rapid-fire round where he reveals his favorite NHL team, all-time players, and the toughest player he's coached!
Listen to more from...
Bronson Koenig on His Comeback, Wisconsin & One Last Chance
Bronson Koenig joins Butchie in The Den for a powerful conversation about basketball, Wisconsin, and what it means to chase one more shot.
Koenig opens up about trying to come out of retirement after six years, why the way his career ended never felt right, and the physical, mental, and emotional work behind his comeback attempt.
He also talks about practicing with the Badgers this summer, Greg Gard welcoming him back, what he saw from this year’s Wisconsin team, the 2015 Final Four win over Kentucky, Bo Ryan stories, rapid fire memories from his Wisconsin te...
Butchie's Green Bay Football Primer - Tuesday, September 8th
Butchie gets you ready for the Packers season with a full Green Bay-focused preview of the biggest storylines, key questions, players to watch, and what fans should be paying attention to as the season gets rolling.
We’ll break down expectations for the Packers, position groups to watch, schedule challenges, key players, and what needs to happen for Green Bay to take a step forward this season.
Plus, Butchie shares his outlook on where this team stands heading into the year and the biggest questions that could shape the Packers’ season.
Have a ques...
Justin Ostrowski: Badger Family Stood By Me After Injury
Former Badger Justin Ostrowski opens up about his career-ending injuries and how the Wisconsin football program's unique family culture supported him through life's toughest moments. This isn't just about football; it's about the unwavering support that defines being a Badger. Justin shares his journey from elite AAU and multi-sport high school star to Parade All-American and Wisconsin recruit, discussing the immense pressure of playing for your home state. He reveals how Coach Beoma and the university stood by him after injury, validating the 'Wisconsin family' promise. We dive into the importance of multi-sport participation for young athletes, the current...
Badger Defense & Balance: UW Assistant Lance Randall Breaks Down The Team
Wisconsin Assistant Coach Lance Randall pulls no punches on the current state of college basketball, NIL, and the transfer portal. Hear his honest take on why the system is 'not tenable,' how it impacts young athletes, and what it means for the future of the game.
Butchie and Coach Randall also break down the new-look Badger team, focusing on the strong front line, offensive balance, and the team's commitment to defensive improvement. Plus, don't miss his insights on summer standouts and a fun rapid-fire segment, including his blind ranking of coaching jobs!
<...Butchie's Badger Football Primer - Tuesday, September 1st
Butchie’s Den LIVE presents the 2026 Wisconsin Badger Football Primer on Tuesday, September 1st at 7:00 PM CT. This special edition of Butchie’s Den LIVE is sponsored by Cherryland’s Best and Middleton Ford. Cherryland’s Best Wisconsin-made dried cherries, fruit snacks, juices and more. Shop: https://www.cherrylandsbest.com/ Middleton Ford Family-owned and serving Middleton, Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin communities. Learn more: https://www.middletonford.com/ Butchie gets you ready for the Badgers football season with a Wisconsin-focused preview of the biggest storylines, key questions, players to watch and what fans should be paying attention to as the seas...
Shawn Eichorst: Wisconsin AD's Vision for Unifying Badger Sports
Tune in as Wisconsin Athletic Director Shawn Eichorst lays out his powerful vision for the future of Badgers athletics. Butchie and Eichorst discuss the critical role of education for student-athletes, the enduring lessons from legendary Coach Barry Alvarez, and the strategy to keep Wisconsin's top talent home. Hear why Eichorst believes a united Wisconsin is an unstoppable force in collegiate sports, and how the athletic department aims to achieve both competitive excellence and lifelong impact for its athletes. Follow Butchie's Den on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more exclusive conversations.
Listen on Spotify: https...
Kyle Blackbourn: Parkside Coach on "The Wisconsin Way" & Facing the Badgers
Former Badger insider and now Parkside Head Coach Kyle Blackbourn joins Butchie to share his unique journey. From 8 years as Director of Recruiting and Scouting at UW, learning the "Wisconsin Way" from Greg Gard, to building his own program at Division 2 Parkside, Kyle offers invaluable insights.
Listen in as he discusses:
- The true meaning of "The Wisconsin Way" and its impact on his coaching.
- How the transfer portal affects D2 basketball and recruiting strategy.
- Why Parkside is a hidden gem for Wisconsin talent.
...
Clayton Hanson on Bo Ryan, Wisconsin Walk-On Journey & Elite Eight Run
Clayton Hanson joins Butchie to reveal a classic Bo Ryan story where Coach compared his wife to a "15-seed upsetting a 2-seed" in the NCAA Tournament – and how Clayton factored into Bo's joke! Listen as the former Wisconsin Badger breaks down his walk-on journey, playing under Bo Ryan, the intense focus on improvement that defined their program, and the unforgettable Elite Eight run against North Carolina. Clayton also shares what he misses most about his playing days and tackles a rapid-fire round about his teammates.
Listen to more from Butchie's Den: https://open.spotify.co...
Andy Kowske: Dick Bennett's Badger Legacy & Final Four Brotherhood
Former Wisconsin Badger Andy Kowske joins Butchie's Den to share how legendary coach Dick Bennett shaped him and the Wisconsin basketball program. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from the 2000 Final Four team, the unique team chemistry of the 'no cell phone camera' era, and how Bennett taught his players discipline and toughness that lasted a lifetime. Kowske also discusses the enduring 'Badger family' culture and his ideal NIL deal. Listen in for a fun, authentic look at an iconic era of Badger hoops.
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3h0MFGiKuBM8TfirIEhMz2?si=qoAPJ9...
Andy Kilbride: The '94 Badgers Who Ended Wisconsin's NCAA Drought
Andy Kilbride, a starting guard for the historic 1993-94 Wisconsin Badgers team, shares the real story of how they broke the program's 47-year NCAA Tournament drought and established the foundational 'Badger Brotherhood.' Listen as Kilbride dives into raw, behind-the-scenes stories about Michael Finley's unsung impact, Rashard Griffith's dominance, and the emotional legacy of Coach Howard Moore. He also recounts classic 90s Badger anecdotes, like the infamous NCAA Selection Show spaghetti chaos, and offers his candid perspective on the future of NIL in college basketball. This is the authentic history of Wisconsin basketball from one of the players who...