Badgers' Freitag Brings Grit and Athleticism to the Court

The Wisconsin men's basketball team's practice session on Thursday offered a glimpse into the potential of freshman guard Daniel Freitag. Despite being a newcomer, Freitag's relentless hustle and physicality on the court caught the attention of head coach Greg Gard, who praised the young player's football background and its impact on his mindset. With the Badgers facing roster changes, Freitag and other newcomers could play a significant role this season.

Grit and Determination: Freitag's Standout Qualities

Diving for Loose Balls and Rebounds

During the practice session, Freitag's willingness to hit the deck in pursuit of loose balls and rebounds stood out. While no official stats were kept, the 6-foot-3 guard was among the team's leaders in floor burns, showcasing his tenacity and desire to make an impact.

Harnessing Athleticism with Discipline

Gard noted that Freitag's explosiveness and athleticism were evident in his drives to the basket, but the coach was particularly impressed by the freshman's ability to learn when to harness that energy. Gard emphasized the importance of Freitag understanding the "school zone" and "interstate" moments, indicating the player's progress in balancing his natural talent with the discipline required at the collegiate level.

Football Background Shaping Mindset

Gard's praise for Freitag's football background highlighted the coach's belief that the experience can positively influence a player's mindset. The Badgers' head coach expressed his fondness for "football players" who are unafraid of physical contact, a trait he sees as beneficial for Freitag's transition to the college game.

Opportunity Amid Roster Changes

With the Badgers facing the departure of several guards from last season's roster, Freitag and other newcomers have a chance to make a significant impact this year. Gard's comments suggest that the coaching staff is closely monitoring Freitag's development and sees the potential for him to contribute in a meaningful way.

Integrating Transfers and Newcomers

In addition to Freitag, the Badgers have welcomed several transfer players, including Xavier Amos, John Tonje, and Camren Hunter. Gard noted that the physicality and skill sets of these transfers have been a pleasant surprise, with Amos, in particular, showcasing more versatility than initially expected.

Sophomore Standout: John Blackwell

Gard also highlighted the growth and confidence of sophomore guard John Blackwell, who emerged as a reliable contributor last season. The coach praised Blackwell's mindset, stating that the player now believes he is "the best player on the floor" and is determined to be one of the top players in the conference.

Adapting to the American Game: Riccardo Greppi

The Badgers' recruitment of Italian forward Riccardo Greppi was a relatively quick process, with the player committing in August and arriving on campus shortly before the start of the school year. Gard acknowledged that the transition has been challenging for Greppi, who has had to "drink out of a fire hose" in terms of adjusting to the team's training regimen and the overall demands of the American college basketball system.Overall, the Badgers' practice session provided a glimpse into the team's evolving roster and the potential impact of newcomers like Daniel Freitag. With the combination of grit, athleticism, and a willingness to learn, Freitag and the Badgers' other additions could play a significant role in the team's success this season.