In a stunning and emotional turn of events that has electrified fans across Wisconsin and the entire basketball world, legendary NFL star and Wisconsin icon J.J. Watt is returning to his roots — but not on the football field.
In a monumental announcement today, the University of Wisconsin officially named J.J. Watt as the Chief Basketball Officer (CBO) for the Wisconsin Badgers Men’s Basketball program. Watt, who has long been an outspoken supporter of Wisconsin athletics, will now step into a powerful leadership and ambassadorial role for the program.
Greg Gard, Family, and NBA Community React
Head Coach Greg Gard, speaking at a press conference alongside Watt, was visibly moved by the announcement. “This is more than just a title. J.J. is family — not just to me personally, but to this program, to this campus, and to the entire state,” Gard said. “His passion, leadership, and drive are going to elevate Wisconsin basketball to a whole new level.”
Watt’s return to college sports, especially in basketball, has drawn praise from across the NBA community as well. Current and former NBA players with Badger ties — including Frank Kaminsky, Sam Dekker, and Nigel Hayes — took to social media to welcome Watt with messages of support and excitement.
Watt’s Vision for Wisconsin Basketball
Although Watt is best known for his dominance on the football field, his love for basketball is no secret — and now he’s making it official. As Chief Basketball Officer, Watt will oversee key strategic elements of the program, including:
Player development and mentorship
Recruitment initiatives
Alumni engagement
National branding and media relations
Watt himself said, “I’ve always been a Badger through and through, and while football was my path, basketball has always been close to my heart. This opportunity allows me to give back to a university and community that gave me everything. I’m all in.”
A New Era Begins
University officials and athletic director Chris McIntosh called the move “historic” and “a new era” for Wisconsin basketball, signaling that the program is pushing for national relevance and long-term success — both on and off the court.
With the 2025-26 college basketball season around the corner, excitement in Madison is reaching a fever pitch.
