The Wisconsin basketball program, under the leadership of Greg Gard, has faced criticism for not reaching the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament in seven years. Adding to the program's challenges, sophomore guard Connor Essegian has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal. Essegian, who averaged 11.7 points, made 36% of his three-point attempts last season, and scored 2,526 career points at East Noble High School with a senior year average of 26 ppg and 43% from 3, was a standout player in AAU basketball for Indiana Elite. His decision to transfer has sparked discussions about the potential for a mass exodus from the team and raised questions about the future of Coach Gard with the program.
#Badgers AM rewind: Sophomore guard Connor Essegian announced last night he plans to transfer from UW. https://t.co/EjnwUSJ6fh
Can’t imagine a worse weekend for @BadgerMBB. - Bucky embarrassed by a 12-seed that loses by 38 two days later. - Connor leaves, which probably means Gard is returning. - Arggghhhhh!!!!
Wisconsin guard Connor Essegian is transferring, and the handling of his development is a horrible look for coach Greg Gard. Is a mass exodus coming in Madison? Fans better be ready for chaos. DETAILS: https://t.co/ejWl7E97dn https://t.co/Pkyl8lq1aH
Connor Essegian announces he plans to transfer from Wisconsin https://t.co/xY7tTD4BDw
Wisconsin sophomore guard Connor Essegian is entering the transfer portal. As a freshman averaged 11.7 points, 36% from 3 on 2 makes per game. 2,526 career points at East Noble (IN) H.S. As a senior: 26 ppg, 43% from 3, was outstanding in AAU for @IndianaElite. https://t.co/Ndz2InYUGo
Was on the road when I saw the tweet from Connor Essegian announcing he plans to transfer, but I've filed a quick story. Should be on our site soon.
It’s been seven years since Greg Gard and the Wisconsin basketball program reached the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament. Simply put, that’s not good enough. My thoughts: https://t.co/PGsH2PrVJE via @Badger_Notes #Badgers https://t.co/PGsH2PrVJE