Wisconsin basketball is currently ranked No. 26 in CBS Sports' early projections for the 2026-27 season, according to analyst Jon Rothstein. This ranking comes after the team experienced significant transfer losses, notably losing players John Blackwell and Aleksas Bieliauskas. As of now, Wisconsin has not added any new transfers to its roster, which raises concerns about their competitiveness heading into the season. The projected starting lineup features guards Owen Foxwell, Jack Janicki, and Hayden Jones, alongside forwards Austin Rapp and Nolan Winter. The coaching staff, led by Greg Gard, is expected to focus on bolstering the team, particularly in the wing positions, as they strive for their first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 2017. The top ten teams in Rothstein's rankings include Michigan, Florida, Illinois, and others, highlighting the competitive landscape of college basketball heading into the new season.