Wisconsin coach Greg Gard provided an update on senior guard Max Klesmit ahead of the team’s game against Ohio State on Tuesday night. “He practiced a bit [on Sunday] and was almost back to full speed today,” Gard told reporters after Monday’s practice. “We’ll see how he responds, but he seems to be improving day by day.”
This progress is noteworthy, especially since Klesmit missed the Badgers’ victory over Minnesota on Friday. The Wisconsin native sustained a right ankle injury with about 10 minutes left in the Badgers’ 75-63 win over Rutgers on January 6. After attempting a three-pointer after the whistle, he landed awkwardly on the foot of Rutgers guard Jeremiah Williams and had to leave the game.
In the 15 games he’s played, the 6-foot-4 guard has averaged 30.3 minutes, 10.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and three assists with a shooting percentage of 33.1%. In his absence against Minnesota, veteran guard Kamari McGee had an outstanding performance, scoring a career-high 15 points in 33 minutes.
Wisconsin built a substantial 30-point lead over the Golden Gophers, so any significant changes to the rotation remain uncertain. Forwards Xavier Amos and Markus Ilver both saw increased playing time as the Badgers dominated the second half.
Gard may rely on Klesmit’s defensive skills against a versatile Buckeyes team on Tuesday. If he cannot play, McGee is expected to take the starting spot again, with additional minutes likely going to bench guard Jack Janicki.
