Wisconsin Basketball Fails to Secure Illinois Transfer Morez Johnson Jr.

Madison, Wisconsin – The University of Wisconsin’s basketball program is out of the running for Illinois transfer forward Morez Johnson Jr., who has narrowed his list of potential schools to Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Arkansas, and Ohio State. This decision comes shortly after he entered the transfer portal following a freshman season where he averaged 7.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks while playing 17.7 minutes per game.

Johnson’s departure marks a significant shift in Wisconsin’s recruiting strategy as the Badgers strive to fill gaps left by the graduation of starter Steven Crowl and key contributor Carter Gilmore. The duo combined to average 44.7 minutes per game, 13.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and over three assists per game last season.

Wisconsin had initially shown interest in Johnson, ranked as the No. 25 player in the transfer portal by 247Sports and the No. 4 forward. His impressive shooting efficiency of 64.2% on two-point attempts highlights his strength as an inside scorer. However, Johnson did not exhibit an outside shooting game, opting not to attempt any three-pointers last season.

In contrast, the Badgers have found potential interest in another forward, Talia Rapp, the 2025 West Coast Conference Freshman of the Year. Rapp, who averaged 13.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, showcases a more versatile skill set that could complement Wisconsin’s newly evolving offense. His ability to shoot from long range, demonstrated by leading the WCC in three-point attempts, could provide the Badgers with much-needed floor spacing.

“Rapp’s ability to stretch the floor at 6-foot-10 is crucial for us, especially after losing a player with Crowl’s abilities,” said a source within the program. “He’s the type of player we are looking for to modernize our approach.”

As the Badgers look to rebuild their lineup ahead of the 2025-26 season, monitoring Rapp’s recruitment will be critical. Johnson, however, continues to be pursued by some of the top programs in the nation following his impressive freshman year.

According to Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports, Johnson played a notable role in Illinois’ NCAA Tournament run, wrapping up his freshman season with a solid performance against Kentucky, where he recorded five points and seven rebounds.

The Badgers’ efforts to secure talent in this transfer cycle remain critical as they prepare for significant roster changes and the challenges that await in the upcoming season.