Wisconsin Mr. Basketball Is Back On the Board: Should Wisconsin Target Zavier Zens?
After requesting his release from Northern Iowa, the 2026 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball is back on the market. Here is why Greg Gard should keep the Milwaukee native home.
The spring coaching carousel just created a massive opportunity for the Wisconsin Badgers.
Zavier Zens, the standout 6-foot-7 forward from Milwaukee’s Wisconsin Lutheran High School, has officially requested his release from his National Letter of Intent with Northern Iowa following a coaching change.
Zens, who just led the Vikings to a Division 1 state championship and earned the prestigious 2026 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball award, is suddenly one of the most intriguing available high school seniors in the Midwest.
The question on every Badger fan’s mind is simple: Will Greg Gard keep him home?
Recruiting Profile: Zavier Zens
Class: 2026
Position: Guard / Forward
Height/Weight: 6’7” / 185 lbs
High School: Wisconsin Lutheran (Milwaukee, WI)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (On3 / 247Sports)
Notable Accolades: 2026 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, MaxPreps Wisconsin Player of the Year, 4x State Champion
Senior Stats: 23.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.5 APG (Shot over 60% from the field).
