Wisconsin Basketball Provides Disappointing Update on Kamari McGee

The first-place Wisconsin Badgers basketball program will have its depth tested in the thick of a Big Ten title race. 

Backup point guard Kamari McGee, who didn’t play against Minnesota in the Badgers’ last game because of an injury he suffered in the second half against the Hoosiers, is out indefinitely, per UW officials. 

#Badgers reserve PG Kamari McGee (right foot/ankle) is out indefinitely, per UW. Using a scooter to get around and keep weight off the foot. As was the case at Minnesota, likely means a bit more PT for Isaac Lindsey.

— Jeff Potrykus (@jaypo1961) January 25, 2024

The injury to McGee’s foot/ankle removes Greg Gard’s top option behind Chucky Hepburn as a primary ball handler and one of the team’s most impactful defensive spark plugs off the bench. 

McGee is averaging 1.4 points, 0.8 rebounds, 0.7 steals, and 0.4 assists in just under seven minutes per game in 18 appearances off the bench.

How Will Wisconsin Basketball Fill Kamari McGee’s Void?

Wisconsin basketball losing their backup point guard hurts. All you have to do is look back at the Badgers NCAA Tournament run that was cut short in 2021-22 to see just how vital having a capable backup truly is.

Kamari McGee has carved out a nice role for himself on this team and has found a way to make his presence felt when he’s on the floor. The Racine native is fourth on the team in steals (12) despite a limited role and has proven to be a more efficient option on offense this season.

With McGee no longer an option for Greg Gard off the bench, the Badgers must now rely on a combination of Max Klesmit and John Blackwell sliding over to run the point on occasion. At the same time, walk-on guard Isaac Lindsey becomes the biggest beneficiary as the primary backup.

Linsey played four minutes against Minnesota the other night. While he may not be a true point guard, Lindsey is a capable offensive player and works hard enough on defense that he should be able to provide the Badgers enough in those limited minutes to spell Hepburn when needed.

Wisconsin basketball (15-4, 7-1 Big Ten) returns to the floor Friday night at the Kohl Center against Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans at 7 p.m. on FS1.

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