Wisconsin Basketball Transfer Guard Announces New Portal Home

A former walk-on for the University of Wisconsin men’s basketball program has found a new home in the transfer portal. 

Badgers guard Ross Candelino announced on social media that he’ll continue his collegiate basketball career at Lipscomb University. 

“All Glory To The Most High,” Candelino wrote. “Ready to work!”

All Glory To The Most High ✝️!
Ready to work! pic.twitter.com/aWjUMDr7lo

— Ross Candelino (@RCandelino) May 8, 2024

Former Wisconsin Men’s Basketball Walk-on Lands at Lipscomb University 

Ross Candelino initially joined the Badgers as a walk-on for the Wisconsin basketball program during the 2022-23 season. 

He was initially committed to American University as a scholarship player out of high school but later chose to de-commit for a chance at the Power Five level with the Badgers.

As a senior, Candelino averaged 14.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game on 43% shooting from beyond the arc, as reported by MaxPreps.

The 6-foot-5 Florida native appeared in five games for the Wisconsin basketball team during his freshman season. Candelino averaged 0.8 points and 0.6 rebounds. Notably, he chipped in four points on a perfect 2-of-2 shooting against South Dakota in the Badgers’ home opener. 

However, Candelino redshirted this past season, saving a year of eligibility while continuing to develop his game on the Badgers scout team.

Wisconsin #Badgers walk-on Ross Candelino isn’t just an energizer bunny/morale guy on the bench — he’s also averaging 53.3 points per 40 minutes.

Is Candelino college basketball’s best-kept secret? pic.twitter.com/kbnaWZ02Ux

— Dillon Graff (@DillonGraff) December 30, 2022

“After talking things over with Coach Gard, my family and God, we have decided that it’s in my best interest to redshirt this season,” Candelino said. “I am looking forward to still giving everything I can to help this team in every way possible and to take this year to develop and grow my game, body and mind. I am excited for this season and can’t wait to see what we accomplish.”

After the season ended, Candelino entered the transfer portal in search of a better long-term fit.

With three years of eligibility remaining, the former Wisconsin basketball walk-on will have a fresh start at Lipscomb, who went 20-12 last season, with clearer path to playing time. 

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