The Wisconsin basketball staff revealed hints towards what the starting lineup could consist of for the Badgers this season.
However, during the conversations regarding who might start, one key transfer named Xavier Amos was not included. Amos transferred into the Wisconsin Badgers program this offseason from Northern Illinois, where he started 25 games last season. At this moment in time, returning Wisconsin forward Nolan Winter would be the player who would start alongside center Steven Crowl.
The Wisconsin basketball staff still have just under a month left to prepare the team ahead of the opening game against Holy Cross. There is still plenty of time for things to change and players to alter their standing with the team. However, Amos potentially being placed on the bench after previously being a starter could be an interesting move.
Not Xavier Amos is interesting https://t.co/nxUxm9V18p
— Badger Enthusiast (@Badger_szn) October 18, 2024
While moving from a starting role to the bench would be interesting, it is more of a testament to how great Winter has played as some Wisconsin basketball fans have pointed out.
Says a lot about how much Winter got over the off-season. All reports are that Amos was better than they thought
— Noah (@DSantiagoChurch) October 18, 2024
Coach Gard is known for playing his sixth-men quite a bit, with John Blackwell appearing frequently for the Badgers off the bench last season. With a deep bench like the one Wisconsin has, it might be hard to find minutes. However, Amos is an experienced player with plenty to offer the program regardless of where he is starting off the game.
Amos recorded 13.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists last season on 49.6% shooting from the field. The forward also developed a three-point shot from the left and right side of the arc, shooting 38.5% last season. Amos also proved to be a versatile defender last season, intercepting multiple shots in the paint for massive blocks.
Wisconsin Basketball Forward Xavier Amos Primed to Make an Impact Regardless of Role
With a 6-foot-7-inch frame, and roughly 225-pounds on the forward, Amos should be a bigger, stronger version of himself this season. Coach Gard placed Amos on a different training regiment, and stated the forward has since gained “around 20 pounds” after training.
Despite not starting right away, it appears coach Gard has big plans ahead for the forward this season given his potential.
During the initial open practices, Amos was labeled as the most successful transfer that entered the Wisconsin basketball program this offseason. Amos was also considered to be “much better than expected” according to the Wisconsin staff. While it may sound harsh, it is not a knock on the ability of Amos but rather the lack of film showcasing his full potential.
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