Max Klesmit and Nolan Winter of Wisconsin’s performance against Northwestern after their injury returns

In the unpredictable world of college basketball, every game counts, and every player’s contribution plays a significant role in determining a team’s fate. For the Wisconsin Badgers, their victory over Northwestern was not only a crucial one but also marked the highly anticipated return of two key players: Max Klesmit and Nolan Winter. Both players had missed some time due to injuries, and their return to the court was a welcome boost for Wisconsin as they pushed toward the Big Ten Tournament and the NCAA Tournament.

This article takes a closer look at how Klesmit and Winter performed upon their return from injuries, and how their individual efforts—combined with their overall impact on the game—helped propel the Badgers to an important victory over the Northwestern Wildcats.

Max Klesmit: The Steady Hand on Offense

Max Klesmit, Wisconsin’s versatile point guard, had been sidelined for several games due to injury. His absence had left a noticeable gap in the Badgers’ backcourt, as Klesmit’s leadership and playmaking abilities were sorely missed. As one of the key players on the roster, Klesmit’s return was highly anticipated, and he wasted no time showing his value in Wisconsin’s win over Northwestern.

After the game, head coach Greg Gard praised Klesmit for his composure and ability to make plays in critical moments. “Max is such an important piece for us,” Gard said. “He brings a level of leadership that we were missing when he wasn’t on the floor. His understanding of the game, his ability to run our offense and control the tempo—those are all things that make him so valuable.”

Klesmit finished the game with 16 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds, contributing across the board in every aspect of the game. His scoring was essential for Wisconsin, especially in the second half, when the game was still very much in the balance. Klesmit showed his full offensive range, knocking down shots from beyond the arc, hitting pull-up jumpers, and driving to the basket to finish strong in traffic.

But perhaps the most crucial aspect of Klesmit’s return was his ability to orchestrate Wisconsin’s offense. As a guard with excellent court vision, Klesmit was able to set up his teammates for easy baskets, providing timely assists and getting them into the right spots. One of the most important plays of the game came late in the second half, when Klesmit found an open Tyler Wahl on the baseline for a critical mid-range jumper that extended Wisconsin’s lead.

“Max has a unique ability to control the game,” Gard explained. “When he’s out there, he can make things slow down, or he can push the pace depending on what’s needed. He really makes everyone else’s job easier.”

Beyond his scoring and playmaking, Klesmit also contributed defensively. Northwestern’s guards struggled to get comfortable against him, and Klesmit’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and stay in front of his man was key in limiting the Wildcats’ perimeter game. While his offensive output was crucial, his defensive tenacity was just as valuable in helping Wisconsin get the stop it needed when the game was tight.

Nolan Winter: Dominance in the Paint

While Klesmit’s return to the backcourt was critical, Nolan Winter’s presence in the frontcourt also played a major role in Wisconsin’s victory. Winter, who had missed some time due to injury as well, is a player known for his toughness in the paint, his rebounding, and his ability to finish plays inside. His return provided the Badgers with the physicality they needed to dominate the interior against Northwestern.

Winter’s performance was marked by his ability to control the boards, both offensively and defensively, and to finish through contact in the paint. He recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, providing Wisconsin with the necessary inside presence to complement Klesmit’s play on the perimeter. In particular, Winter’s offensive rebounding was invaluable, as he repeatedly gave the Badgers second-chance opportunities.

“Having Nolan back was huge for us,” Gard said. “He brings that physicality that we needed inside. His ability to get us extra possessions and finish around the rim is something that really helped us control the game.”

Winter was active from the opening tip, making his presence felt early by securing a rebound and immediately pushing the ball up the floor. He showed great patience in the post, making quick moves and finishing strong when given the ball in the low block. But what stood out most in Winter’s return was his ability to make plays even when the offense wasn’t necessarily running through him.

Late in the game, Winter was instrumental in keeping Northwestern from making a run. He blocked a critical shot attempt in the post, followed by a tough offensive rebound and putback that stretched Wisconsin’s lead to eight points with just under three minutes remaining. Winter’s toughness in these moments provided a sense of security for the Badgers, as they were able to build a small lead in the final minutes and ultimately close out the game.

“I’ve always prided myself on being a physical player,” Winter said after the game. “It felt good to be back out there contributing in the ways I know I can. I just try to do whatever it takes to help the team.”

Klesmit and Winter’s Complementary Roles

While both Klesmit and Winter were essential in Wisconsin’s victory over Northwestern, their respective skill sets complement one another in a way that makes them a dynamic duo for the Badgers. Klesmit’s leadership and ability to run the offense from the backcourt allow Winter the space to work in the paint, where he can use his size and strength to score and rebound. Meanwhile, Winter’s interior presence and rebounding give Klesmit the security he needs to focus on facilitating and creating opportunities for the team.

“These two guys have a great understanding of how to play off each other,” Gard said. “Max knows where to put the ball for Nolan to be successful, and Nolan knows where to position himself to give Max a target. Their synergy is critical for our team.”

In a way, Klesmit and Winter’s return marked the return of Wisconsin’s identity—one where solid defense, physicality in the paint, and efficient offense work together to produce winning results. Klesmit’s outside shooting and perimeter defense are enhanced by Winter’s presence in the post, while Winter’s ability to get second-chance opportunities and finish at the rim helps maximize the spacing that Klesmit creates.

Wisconsin’s Success Moving Forward

As the Badgers continue their journey through the Big Ten schedule and head toward the NCAA Tournament, the importance of Klesmit and Winter cannot be overstated. Both players are crucial to Wisconsin’s success, and their ability to stay healthy and continue playing at a high level will be vital if the Badgers are to make a deep run in March.

With Klesmit and Winter back in the fold, Wisconsin has all the tools it needs to compete with some of the best teams in the country. Klesmit’s leadership and experience, combined with Winter’s inside presence and rebounding, give the Badgers a balanced and dangerous team.

“Having those two guys back gives us confidence,” Gard said. “We’re a much different team with them on the floor. Now we just need to continue to build on this performance and take it to the next level.”

While the Badgers still have some tough matchups ahead, their win over Northwestern was a clear indicator that the return of Klesmit and Winter is a game-changer for Wisconsin. The team will look to build momentum from this victory as they prepare for their next challenge.