The day after their 23 point loss at Michigan, the Wisconsin Badgers received some good news. They are picking up a verbal commitment from Western Reserve Academy (Ohio) 2021 forward Markus Ilver.
Ilver is a 6-foot-8, 3-star recruit forward from Estonia. He came to the U.S. with the hopes of playing high major basketball. As a junior, Ilver played for Massanutten Military Academy in Virginia. He then transferred to Western Reserve Academy. Additionally, he played for Estonia’s U18 team at the FIBA European Championships. Ilver averaged 6.7 points and 2.3 rebounds per game.
Ilver says Wisconsin is “the perfect fit” for him. He will bring athleticism and versatility to the program. Ilver recognizes his ability to contribute to the team in multiple ways saying, “I want to show that I can also play at three as well as the four.” In addition, Ilver has the ability to stretch the floor. He has the potential to become the next Wisconsin big man that is a threat from deep.
Former Badger great Sam Dekker was thrilled about the commitment. Ilver attended an NBA Basketball Without Borders camp that Dekker was also at during his time playing professionally overseas. Dekker said in a tweet: “Love his game. Huge get!!! Just a basketball player.”
The Badgers offered Ilver a scholarship over the summer. He chose Wisconsin over Division I offers from Utah, Xavier, and fellow BIG 10 school Nebraska, among others. Ilver joins Chris Hodges, Chucky Hepburn, and Matthew Mors as the fourth commitment in the Badgers’ 2021 recruiting class.
Markus Ilver announced his commitment on Instagram saying: “It still feels unreal to say this but I’m blessed to announce that I have committed to University of Wisconsin #onwisconsin”
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