A Prodigal Badger Returns: Bucks Acquire Nigel Hayes-Davis
How the Milwaukee Bucks’ trade for Nigel Hayes-Davis reunites a Wisconsin basketball legend with the 414
In a deadline-day move that brings a former Wisconsin Badgers star back to the 414, the Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly acquired Nigel Hayes-Davis.
The deal, first reported by Shams Charania, sends Hayes-Davis and center Nick Richards to Milwaukee in exchange for Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey.
For Hayes-Davis, it is a homecoming to the state where he became a household name and a cornerstone of the most successful era in Wisconsin basketball history.
The Wisconsin Legacy
Hayes-Davis isn’t just “another former Badger.” He remains a statistical star in Madison:
Total Points: 1,857 (3rd all-time at UW).
The Triple Threat: He is the only player in program history to rank in the school’s top 10 for career points, rebounds, and assists.
Big Ten History: He is one of only two players in Big Ten history to record at least 1,800 points, 700 rebounds, and 300 assists.
Global Stardom
After a brief initial NBA run (Lakers, Raptors, Kings), Nigel transformed into an international superstar. His time in Europe wasn’t just a “stint.” He became the face of the EuroLeague.
The 50-Point Record: In March 2024, playing for Fenerbahçe, Nigel set the all-time EuroLeague record for most points in a single game, dropping 50 points against Alba Berlin.
Champion & MVP: He culminated his European journey as a 2025 EuroLeague Champion and was named the EuroLeague Final Four MVP, proving he is a high-stakes winner.
The 2025-26 Season: Phoenix and the NBA Return
After dominating Europe, Hayes-Davis signed with the Phoenix Suns this past summer. While his statistical box score in Phoenix was modest, his role was as a versatile, veteran wing in a crowded rotation.
2025-26 Stats: Averaged 1.3 PPG and 1.2 RPG in roughly 7.2 minutes per game.
Season Highlight: Despite low minutes, his efficiency and defensive IQ remained high, evidenced by a 10-point, 6-rebound performance in the preseason that solidified his place on an NBA roster.
What He Brings to Milwaukee
For a Bucks team that just committed to keeping Giannis Antetokounmpo through the deadline, Nigel provides a “glue guy” with an elite basketball IQ. He can defend multiple positions, space the floor (shooting 39.2% from three over his Euro career), and understands the winning culture the Bucks are desperate to maintain.
Continue Reading:
Ceiling vs. Floor: Predicting the Chaos of Wisconsin’s Final Month
February in the Big Ten is where efficiency meets reality. After a scorching 7-1 run through January that saw the Wisconsin basketball team climb to 16-6 (8-3 B1G), Greg Gard’s squad finds itself at a crossroads.
Wisconsin Bracketology: Badgers Riding High After OSU Win, But a Gauntlet Awaits
February has arrived, and the Wisconsin basketball team sits at 16-6 (8-3 in the Big Ten) after dismantling Ohio State at the Kohl Center. The Badgers have proven they can score with anyone. But as the latest Bracketology updates show, the committee still needs more convincing before they grant the Badgers a protected seed.
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