[lawrence-newsletter]Despite the depth that Wisconsin basketball will have in 2020, Greg Gard and his staff may be looking to add another piece to the puzzle. As first reported by 247sports insider Evan Flood, Wisconsin basketball has initiated talks with Rice transfer Drew Peterson.
#Badgers among the programs who are in contact with Rice transfer Drew Peterson since his de-commitment from Minnesota.https://t.co/KblTMoPv1L (VIP) pic.twitter.com/LxwrazT3JG
— Evan Flood (@Evan_Flood) May 10, 2020
Peterson is a 6-foot-8 sophomore from Libertyville, Illinois who has two years of eligibility left to use. This past season at Rice, the lengthy guard put up 11.1 points, 6.5 boards, and 3.4 assists per game. Peterson has an all-around game that could fit nicely in Wisconsin’s system. One also has to keep in mind that at the current moment, the Badgers do not have a scholarship available in 2020. Peterson would likely have to walk-on and then earn a scholarship the following season. The former Rice Owl will be looking for immediate eligibility from an NCAA waiver, which we who follow Wisconsin basketball know is never a given.
Initially, Peterson committed to rival Minnesota after transferring from Rice, but recently announced the re-opening of his recruitment.
After discussing with my family, I am reopening my recruitment. Minnesota is still very much a possibility for me. I hope everyone understands the importance of making such a big life choice during these unprecedented times. Please respect my decision.
— Drew Peterson (@Drewpeterson23) May 1, 2020
The Golden Gophers remain in the mix, but the Badgers now look like they may have something to say about that. The battle for the axe has quickly turned into the battle for Peterson.