Former Badger Kirk Penney named special assistant to Wisconsin basketball head coach Greg Gard

Former Wisconsin basketball star Kirk Penney has officially been named as the ‘special assistant to the head coach’ on Greg Gard’s staff, the program announced on Friday. Penney, who returned to the Badgers program in November of 2023, has been instrumental in the team’s offensive evolution this past season.

Head coach Greg Gard expressed his excitement about Penney’s expanded role, citing the positive impact he has had on the team’s offensive efficiency. The Badgers averaged 74.7 points per game in the 2023-24 season, their highest scoring average in 30 years, thanks in part to Penney’s contributions.

Penney, a former all-Big Ten guard for the Badgers from 1999-2003, is known for his sharpshooting abilities and has played a key role in helping the team’s players improve their productivity on the court. Gard praised Penney’s work and expressed confidence in the team’s continued growth under his guidance.

With star players Chucky Hepburn and A.J. Storr entering the transfer portal, Wisconsin is facing roster turnover and the challenge of replacing their production. Penney’s presence on the coaching staff will be crucial as the team looks to reshape expectations for the upcoming season.

For more updates on Wisconsin basketball’s transfer portal activity, fans can follow @TheBadgersWire on X and stay tuned for ongoing coverage of Badgers news and opinion. Penney’s impact on the team’s offense this past season has been undeniable, and his continued involvement will be key as the program navigates the challenges of college basketball in the current landscape.