Wisconsin basketball contending with three Big Ten programs to land top transfer target

Wisconsin basketball is among five finalists to land Portland transfer forward Austin Rapp.

On3’s Joe Tipton released the list on Tuesday evening: Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, Clemson and Oregon.

Rapp entered the portal after a standout freshman season at Portland. His campaign included averages of 33 minutes, 13.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 blocks on 39.7% shooting and 35.2% from 3 and the West Coast Conference Freshman of the Year award. He was one of the lone bright spots on a Portland team that finished 12-20 and ranked No. 270 in KenPom.

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The 6’10” forward shouldn’t have much trouble fitting into Wisconsin’s offense, if he commits. The Badgers lost veteran center Steven Crowl (25.6 minutes, 9.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists per game on 54% shooting, 41% from 3) to graduation after the 2024-25 season. Rapp could potentially fill that starting role, possibly even providing an even better 3-point shooting threat. The transfer forward led the WCC in 3-point attempts (236), makes (83) and percentage (35.2%) in 2024-25. While the Big Ten would be a step up in competition, his game and shooting profile would greatly aid head coach Greg Gard and his new-look offensive approach.

While no clear front-runner has emerged, Wisconsin recently hosted Rapp on an official visit. It’s clear that he’s one of the program’s top targets at this stage of the transfer cycle.