Why Badgers Point Guard Chucky Hepburn ‘Is a Coach’s Dream’

Chucky Hepburn has transitioned into a role as more of a “true point guard” for the Badgers during his junior season, and it’s been the key to unlocking the Wisconsin basketball program’s offensive attack.

After leading the Wisconsin Badgers in scoring a year ago with 12.2 points per game, Hepburn transformed his body in the offseason to stick with quicker guards on defense and push the pace offensively.

“I’m always looking for different ways to improve my game,” Hepburn told reporters. “Last year, it was scoring. This year, it was being more of a leader, controlling the game, and being a lockdown defender…Just doing whatever it takes to win the games.”

To say those changes have made an impact would be an understatement.

The No. 13 ranked Wisconsin basketball program (16-4, 8-1), which sits atop the Big Ten standings, currently ranks No. 4 nationally in adjusted offensive efficiency, according to KenPom. For reference, Greg Gard and the Badgers finished at No. 140 a season ago.

UW’s Offense Is Rolling Because of Chucky Hepburn

Reducing Chucky Hepburn’s offensive burden has allowed the Nebraska native to control the game’s pace better and lean into his playmaking abilities. His selflessness with the ball in his hands has helped improve the offensive cohesion and the shot quality of everyone around him.

“He [Hepburn] is a coach’s dream,” Tom Izzo said. “He runs the team. He checks the best player. He is never, ever out of control…It seems like he runs the thing until the right guys get the shot.”