Carter Gilmore writes an emotional goodbye to Wisconsin basketball; John Blackwell thinks Badgers will ‘bounce back’.
In the world of college basketball, player departures are an inevitability. Whether it’s a senior moving on to professional opportunities or a player deciding to transfer to pursue new opportunities, these transitions are a part of the game. But some departures hit harder than others, particularly when the player has had a meaningful impact on the team, the program, and the community. For Carter Gilmore, his departure from the University of Wisconsin basketball program was not just the end of his time on the court—it was an emotional farewell to a place that had shaped him into the player and person he had become.
In this Monday Mailbag piece, we’ll take a closer look at Carter Gilmore’s emotional goodbye to Wisconsin basketball, the role he played during his time with the Badgers, and the future of the program, as seen through the lens of fellow Wisconsin basketball player John Blackwell, who believes that despite recent setbacks, the Badgers will bounce back stronger than ever.
Carter Gilmore’s Emotional Goodbye to Wisconsin Basketball
Carter Gilmore’s time with the Wisconsin Badgers basketball team may not have been marked by headline-grabbing performances or national attention, but his impact on the program was immeasurable. Over the course of his four years in Madison, Gilmore embodied the spirit of Wisconsin basketball: hard-working, unselfish, and committed to the team’s success.
In a heartfelt message shared through social media, Gilmore announced his departure from the Badgers, expressing gratitude and reflecting on the incredible journey that had led him to this point. The post was a tribute to the university, the coaching staff, his teammates, and the fans who had supported him throughout his time at Wisconsin.
“I want to take a moment to thank the University of Wisconsin for the opportunity to wear the Cardinal and White,” Gilmore wrote in his farewell message. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to be a part of this program and represent this great university. I’ve learned so much over the last few years, both as a player and as a person, and I’ll forever be grateful for the memories I’ve made here.”
For Gilmore, the decision to leave was not an easy one. After being a part of Wisconsin’s basketball program for several seasons, it was clear that he had grown both on and off the court. As a forward who primarily played in a reserve role, Gilmore’s contributions were often understated, but his importance to the team’s success was undeniable. His versatility, his basketball IQ, and his commitment to the team’s goals made him a valuable asset, even if he wasn’t always the player in the spotlight.
Throughout his tenure, Gilmore showed incredible resilience, working hard every day in practice to contribute to the team’s success. Whether it was playing defense, securing rebounds, or providing a spark off the bench, Gilmore was always there when the Badgers needed him most. His emotional goodbye was a reflection of how much his time in Madison meant to him. The journey wasn’t always easy, but it was one that he cherished deeply.
“I’ll forever remember the fans, the coaches, and the teammates who helped me become the player I am today,” he continued in his message. “While it’s difficult to leave, I know that my time here has helped me grow in ways I never imagined, and I’ll carry the lessons with me for the rest of my life.”
Gilmore’s departure marks the end of an era for Wisconsin basketball, but his contributions will not be forgotten. His commitment to the team, his humility, and his dedication to putting the team first are qualities that have come to define the Badgers program over the years. His decision to move on may signal the end of one chapter, but it also signifies the beginning of the next stage of his basketball career.
The Legacy of Carter Gilmore at Wisconsin
While Gilmore’s departure may not generate the same level of media attention as the departure of a star player, his legacy at Wisconsin is one that should be remembered. In a program known for developing tough, well-rounded players who excel in the fundamentals of the game, Gilmore was the epitome of the Wisconsin ethos. He wasn’t a player who sought the spotlight, but he was a player who did whatever it took to contribute to the team’s success.
Over his career with the Badgers, Gilmore played in a variety of roles, each time showing up when called upon. Whether it was coming off the bench to provide energy or starting in place of an injured player, Gilmore’s ability to step up in any situation made him an invaluable member of the team. His work ethic and team-first mentality helped Wisconsin maintain its reputation for being one of the most disciplined and consistent teams in the Big Ten.
Gilmore’s development throughout his time at Wisconsin is a testament to the program’s ability to nurture and grow players. While he may not have been the highest-profile player on the team, he was one of the most reliable, and his impact on the court and in the locker room was significant. Wisconsin basketball prides itself on developing players who can perform in high-pressure situations, and Gilmore proved time and again that he was capable of doing just that.
For Gilmore, the next steps in his basketball journey will be shaped by the foundation he built in Madison. His experience with the Badgers will likely serve him well as he moves forward, whether it’s pursuing professional opportunities or continuing his education and growth as a person.
John Blackwell’s Confidence in the Badgers’ Future
As one of Carter Gilmore’s teammates at Wisconsin, John Blackwell has seen firsthand the dedication and passion that Gilmore brought to the team. Blackwell, who has been with the Badgers for several seasons, was quick to offer his thoughts on the program’s future in the wake of Gilmore’s departure.
“I know Carter’s leaving isn’t easy for anyone, especially him, but I truly believe this team is going to bounce back stronger than ever,” Blackwell said. “We’ve got a great group of guys here, and we’ve seen what we’re capable of. We just need to stay focused and keep working hard.”
Blackwell’s optimism about the Badgers’ future is shared by many of his teammates. Despite the challenges that the team has faced in recent seasons, including early exits from the NCAA tournament, there is a belief within the program that they can turn things around. The Badgers have a strong foundation in place, with talented players who are committed to improving and pushing the program to new heights.
For Blackwell, the loss of Gilmore is a tough one, but it’s also an opportunity for others to step up and fill the void left behind. “Carter was such a big part of this team,” Blackwell explained. “He did all the little things that made us better. But that just means we have to pick up the slack and continue to grow as a team. We have the talent to do that.”
Indeed, the Badgers have a talented roster, and while they’ll miss Gilmore’s contributions, there’s a sense that this team is poised for a rebound. With key players returning, including star guard Chucky Hepburn and forward Tyler Wahl, Wisconsin has the pieces in place to make a run in the Big Ten and beyond. The addition of incoming recruits and the development of younger players like Blackwell are also contributing to the team’s positive outlook.
Blackwell himself has been a key contributor for the Badgers, providing solid defense and leadership. He’s one of the players who will be tasked with filling the leadership vacuum left by Gilmore’s departure, and he’s confident that the team will rise to the occasion.
The State of Wisconsin Basketball
As the Badgers move forward without Gilmore, it’s clear that the program has a lot to look forward to. Head coach Greg Gard has built a reputation for developing players and fostering a culture of teamwork and discipline. While the team’s recent tournament results have been disappointing, there’s a renewed sense of hope that Wisconsin can return to its winning ways.
The loss of a player like Gilmore is never easy, but it’s also an opportunity for the team to evolve. The Badgers will need to find new ways to fill the leadership void left behind, and the development of younger players will be crucial in that process. With players like Hepburn, Wahl, and Blackwell leading the charge, Wisconsin has the potential to contend in the Big Ten once again.
For fans of the Badgers, the future remains bright. While the departure of Gilmore may have been emotional, it’s clear that the program is on the right track. With strong leadership, committed players, and a coach who understands the ins and outs of Wisconsin basketball, the Badgers are poised to bounce back stronger than ever in the coming seasons.
