Bloomington, Ind. — In the days leading to his debut as Wisconsin's interim head coach, Greg Gard delivered a blunt and unambiguous message to the players.
In short, he warned them to be prepared to play because he planned to use anyone capable of helping UW win.
Redshirt sophomore guard Jordan Hill and freshman forward Alex Illikainen, essentially missing in action during UW's first 12 games, have taken advantage of Gard's expanded bench and have played key roles in the Badgers' gradual improvement.
"I think it gives us different dimensions," UW assistant coach Gary Close said.