2025 Athletic Programs at the University of Wisconsin–Madison: A Comprehensive Overview
The University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison) continues to uphold its rich tradition of athletic excellence in 2025. With a diverse array of sports programs, the Badgers demonstrate resilience, innovation, and a commitment to both athletic and academic success. This article delves into the current state of UW–Madison’s athletic programs, highlighting key developments and achievements across various sports.
Football: Navigating a New Era
The Badgers’ football team is poised for a challenging yet promising 2025 season. Following a 5–7 record in 2024, the team aims to rebound under the guidance of its coaching staff. The 2025 schedule features high-profile home games against Ohio State, Washington, and Iowa, as well as a notable away game at Alabama .
Recruiting efforts have been fruitful, with the signing of 24 commits, including four-star quarterback Carter Smith and three-star quarterback Landyn Locke . These additions bolster the team’s depth and signal a strategic focus on building a competitive roster for the future.
Men’s Basketball: Rebuilding with New Talent
The men’s basketball program faces a period of transition in 2025. After a season marked by inconsistency and an early exit from the NCAA tournament, the team is integrating new players to revitalize its lineup. Key departures include A.J. Storr transferring to Kansas and Tyler Wahl exhausting his eligibility .
The projected starting lineup features Camren Hunter at point guard, transfers Max Klesmit and John Tonje as guards, Xavier Amos at power forward, and senior Steven Crowl at center. Freshman guard Daniel Freitag adds promising depth to the bench. The team’s success will hinge on the development of returning players and the seamless integration of new talent.
Women’s Basketball: Seeking a Fresh Start
The women’s basketball team concluded the 2024–25 season with a 13–15 record, extending a 15-year streak without a winning season . Head coach Marisa Moseley resigned after four seasons, citing personal reasons . The program is now in search of new leadership to rejuvenate its performance and competitiveness within the Big Ten Conference.
Women’s Ice Hockey: Sustaining Excellence
The women’s ice hockey team continues to be a powerhouse, capturing its eighth national championship in 2025 . Under the seasoned leadership of Coach Mark Johnson, the team achieved a program-record 31 wins during the regular season . The roster boasts a mix of seasoned players and promising recruits, ensuring the continuation of the program’s storied success.
Softball: Building on a Solid Foundation
The softball team, led by Coach Yvette Healy in her 13th season, remains a competitive force within the Big Ten Conference . With a history of NCAA tournament appearances and a conference tournament championship in 2013, the program focuses on developing talent and striving for postseason success.
Embracing NIL Opportunities
UW–Madison is actively engaging with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities to support its student-athletes. The Exact Sciences Athletes program, in collaboration with Learfield’s Badger Sports Properties, offers NIL and educational opportunities to 11 student-athletes across various sports . This initiative emphasizes career development, community engagement, and personal branding, reflecting the university’s commitment to holistic student-athlete support.
Marching Band: The Soundtrack of Badger Athletics
The University of Wisconsin Marching Band, known as “The Hardest Working Band in America,” continues to energize fans with its dynamic performances . With a membership of approximately 300, the band plays a vital role in creating the vibrant atmosphere at athletic events, particularly during football games at Camp Randall Stadium.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison’s athletic programs in 2025 reflect a blend of tradition, resilience, and forward-thinking strategies. From the gridiron to the ice rink, the Badgers strive for excellence, supported by dedicated coaching staff, enthusiastic fans, and a commitment to student-athlete development. As the university navigates the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, its programs continue to embody the spirit of “On, Wisconsin!”
