Top 347 countdown No. 40 Wisconsin

OVERVIEW

Unlike many other Big Ten teams, Wisconsin must replace its most important players. Marcus Landry was the team's leading scorer, and Joe Krabbenhoft was the top rebounder. Both also were solid defenders and seasoned veterans. But don't bet against Wisconsin finding a way to make everything work. The Badgers have finished in the top four of the Big Ten and reached the NCAA tournament every season under ninth-year coach Bo Ryan. Guard Trevon Hughes is poised to become the go-to player Landry was last season. Krabbenhoft was a unique player with his 6.7 rebounds per game and 81 assists, but forwards Jon Leuer and Keaton Nankivil played enough minutes as sophomores to step into larger roles this season. One-and-done freshmen and highly touted sophomores make the biggest splashes, but Ryan once again should have a veteran team ready to perform on the big stage.

Trevon Hughes is part of a veteran squad at Wisconsin.

PROJECTED STARTERS

F Jon Leuer, 6-10/230, Jr.

F Keaton Nankivil, 6-8/245, Jr.

G Jason Bohannon, 6-2/195, Sr.

G Trevon Hughes, 6-0/195, Sr.

G/F Tim Jarmusz, 6-6/208, Jr.

KEY RESERVES

C Jared Berggren, 6-10/240, R-Fr.

F Mike Bruesewitz, 6-6/220, Fr.

G Jordan Taylor, 6-1/195, Soph.

G/F Rob Wilson, 6-3/200, Soph.

FRONTCOURT

Landry and Krabbenhoft will be missed around the basket - Landry for his ability to score and Krabbenhoft for his defensive prowess. Leuer might be the breakout player in that regard. He was the team's fourth-leading scorer at 8.8 points per game. The 6-foot-8, 245-pound Nankivil saw his share of playing time last season; he'll provide some toughness in the frontcourt. Despite some experience, Wisconsin is looking for some depth. Wisconsin needs 6-10, 240-pound center Jared Berggren, the Badgers' top recruit in 2008, to contribute as a redshirt freshman.

BACKCOURT

Hughes averaged 12.1 points per game last season. He's a quick and physical guard who can take the big shot, but he has his flaws, too. He's better off the dribble and had a tendency to force shots last season. Jason Bohanon, the Badgers' best 3-point threat, joins Hughes in the starting backcourt. He struggled at times last season, but became more consistent in the final month of the season. After providing 3.4 points and 2.2 rebounds per game off the bench, Tim Jarmusz should become a reliable wing player as a junior. Jordan Taylor saw quality minutes as a freshman; he and Rob Wilson will have increased roles as sophomores.

OUTLOOK

The names change, but the results generally are the same in Madison: The Badgers contend in the Big Ten and land in the NCAA tournament. That consistency will be put to the test this season. Wisconsin may come up short in its bid for a ninth consecutive tournament berth.

- DAVID FOX

More Rivals.com 2009-10 Preseason 347 Countdown

Preseason rankings were compiled by basketball writers David Fox, Mike Huguenin, Jason King and Steve Megargee.