Greg Gard talked like a coach who knows exactly what Wisconsin needs when a roster turns over: proven shooting on the wing and real athleticism around the rim. His comments on newcomers Eian Elmer and Victory Onuetu sketched out a clear blueprint for how the Badgers want to build next year’s team, adding experience, raising the skill floor, and bringing more ways to score.
Elmer arrived as the plug-and-play perimeter piece in that plan. Gard called him “another excellent addition to our spring signees,” pointing to the “wealth of experiences and scoring punch” Elmer brought as a 6-foot-7 wing. Gard also leaned into the winning context, noting Elmer played for “one of the country’s most successful teams at Miami (Ohio) that won 32 games.”
Wisconsin has made a living over the years with wings who can space the floor, and Gard didn’t hide the pitch: “A terrific shooter, his skill set and production fit excellently into our plan as we build out next year’s team.” Gard also emphasized what his staff valued in evaluation: “size, power, and skill,” and said he believed Elmer “will thrive in our system.”
Gard, emphasizing Elmer playing on a 32-win Miami (Ohio) ballclub, feels like an important indicator of what the staff looks for in the portal. Much like Nick Boyd the year before, the staff seems to be looking for veterans and winners.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin’s Greg Gard discusses Miami (OH) addition Eian Elmer
Reporting by Ryan Harings, Badgers Wire / Badgers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
