Badgers Add Rim-Protecting Big Man for Second Transfer Portal Addition

Wisconsin signed former Hofstra forward Victory Onuetu for its second addition out of the transfer portal.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:50pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movement and energy of a basketball player blocking a shot at the rim, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in deep blues, greens, and oranges.The Wisconsin Badgers' new transfer addition Victory Onuetu brings an energetic, rim-protecting presence to the team's frontcourt.Madison Today

Wisconsin has signed former Hofstra forward Victory Onuetu, a 6-foot-10 center with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, to bolster their frontcourt. Onuetu averaged 4.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game last season at Hofstra, providing strong rim protection and rebounding ability.

Why it matters

With his size, length, and defensive skills, Onuetu addresses a key need for the Badgers, who finished 224th in the nation in defensive block percentage last season. He will provide an immediate boost to Wisconsin's interior defense and rebounding.

The details

Onuetu is a Spanish-born forward who will have one more year of eligibility remaining at Wisconsin. He is known for his rim protection, shot-blocking, and relentless activity on the glass. Last season, he had 11 games with multiple blocked shots, including an emphatic denial to secure an upset victory over Syracuse.

  • Onuetu signed with Wisconsin on April 18, 2026.

The players

Victory Onuetu

A 6-foot-10 center with a 7-foot-3 wingspan who transferred from Hofstra to Wisconsin.

Greg Gard

The head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers basketball team.

Austin Rapp

A returning forward for the Wisconsin Badgers.

Nolan Winter

A returning forward for the Wisconsin Badgers.

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What they’re saying

“He's an extremely talented, athletic front line player that gives us excellent rim protection in transition, lob threats in the half court, shot blocking capability and relentless rebounding.”

— Greg Gard, Head Coach, Wisconsin Badgers

The takeaway

With the addition of Victory Onuetu, the Wisconsin Badgers have significantly bolstered their frontcourt depth and interior defense. Onuetu's rim protection, shot-blocking, and rebounding abilities will provide an immediate impact and address a key weakness from last season.