While the 2026-27 college basketball season may feel a world away, early projections are already shaping the conversation. In a recent look ahead by CBS Sports analyst Jon Rothstein, the Wisconsin Badgers have landed at No. 26 in his preliminary "Rothstein 45" rankings.

This early placement comes during a pivotal offseason for Greg Gard's program. The Badgers have seen significant roster movement through the transfer portal, including the departures of key contributors John Blackwell and Aleksas Bieliauskas. As of now, Wisconsin has not secured any transfer additions, making this ranking a pure projection based on the current roster.

Without new additions, the Badgers' starting five projects to feature guards Owen Foxwell, Jack Janicki, and Hayden Jones, alongside forwards Austin Rapp and Nolan Winter. The clear priority for the coaching staff will be to bolster the roster, particularly on the wing, to add depth and experience.

The challenge for Gard is clear: maintain the program's status as a consistent Big Ten contender while breaking through a postseason barrier. Despite being one of the conference's most successful teams over the past six years, the Badgers are still aiming for their first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 2017. This early ranking sets the stage for a crucial team-building offseason in Madison.