To return to the NCAA tournament, a team needs contributions from both returning players and incoming recruits. Here's a look at Wisconsin and its chances of dancing again in 2016.
Quick references:
Possible 2015-16 starting five
F: Sam Dekker
F: Nigel Hayes
C: Vitto Brown
Who is lost: When you lose the Big Ten Player of the Year, you have a little reloading to do. Frank Kaminsky was the best player in the Big Ten and easily one of the best players in the country. He can't be replaced. Traevon Jackson was one of the key glue guys on this season's team. His toughness will be hard to replace. Josh Gasser and Duje Dukan were also contributors who will graduate.
Who is added: The incoming class will have to contribute immediately as there are plenty of minutes up for grabs. Brevin Pritzl will play immediately and will have a chance to start. He is a tough shooter in the classic Wisconsin mold. Alex Illikainen and Charlie Thomas will compete for the open 5-spot and provide quality depth. Wing Khalil Iverson brings athleticism and toughness.
What it means for next season: Wisconsin was the best team in the Big Ten this season. The Badgers won't necessarily have to rebuild but some retooling will be needed. Hayes and Dekker are a great foundation and are All-Big Ten quality players. Koenig is a more than capable point guard. If some key role players step up and provide production, the Badgers should still be in the top half of the conference and compete for a spot in the NCAA tournament.
Trending: Down: There's no place to go but down. Wisconsin should still be good, but it will be tough to win the Big Ten again. But never count out a Bo Ryan-coached team.