Former Wisconsin Badgers standout Sam Dekker is trading his playing jersey for a clipboard, as he's been named an assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks men's basketball program. The 32-year-old, who was a key figure in Wisconsin's back-to-back Final Four appearances in 2014 and 2015, brings a wealth of professional experience to the SEC squad.

Dekker, a Sheboygan native and former Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, spent 11 seasons playing professionally overseas after being selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2015 NBA Draft. His most recent stint was with Spain's Joventut Badalona. On the college level, he was a two-time All-Big Ten Second Team selection and earned Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors.

In a heartfelt response to the news, Dekker called it a "full circle moment," adding, "Basketball truly can write stories in your life that you'd never thought possible." He expressed deep gratitude to head coach Lamont Paris, saying, "I couldn't be more excited to be a part of Gamecock basketball. The decision to transition from player to coach is not one I took lightly, but joining Coach Paris and this program was a dream opportunity."

Dekker and Paris share a history that goes back to those Final Four runs, where Paris served as an assistant coach for the Badgers. Now, they're reuniting in Columbia, South Carolina. "I am thrilled to return to the college game and compete at such a high level in the SEC," Dekker said. "Some of my best memories as a player were competing in two Final Fours with Coach Paris, and I look forward to doing that with him again. My goal is to win in March and give our players the best opportunity for success on and off the court."

Paris, who has been at the helm of the Gamecocks since 2022 with a 62-68 record, clearly sees Dekker's pro experience and winning pedigree as a major asset. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, this new hire adds a fresh dynamic to the coaching staff—one that blends Wisconsin grit with SEC ambition.