Wisconsin coach Greg Gard gives injury update, discusses rest advantage ahead of Illinois matchup

Wisconsin coach Greg Gard discussed Trevor Anderson’s injury status and the Badgers’ full week of rest on his radio show on Monday evening.

Gard said he’s optimistic about Anderson being able to play vs. No. 5 Illinois on Saturday. Anderson missed the Badgers’ last two games with an injury.

#Badgers coach Greg Gard, on his radio show, sounded cautiously optimistic Trevor Anderson could be back for ILL on Saturday. Illini play Tuesday and Thursday before facing UW Saturday. UW gets time to rest/prepare.

— Jeff Potrykus (@jaypo1961) February 23, 2021

Gard also discussed the importance of rest going into this game with the Illini. The Badgers will have nearly a full week of rest prior to the matchup, while Illinois has to play at Michigan State on Tuesday.

This is a major opportunity for Wisconsin to improve its NCAA Tournament résumé. The Badgers aren’t on the bubble, but they could use a big win to boost their seed on Selection Sunday.

Gard emphasized the importance of rest and recovery for his players early in the week.

#Badgers coach Greg Gard, on his radio show, notes it is critical for the players to take today/Tuesday to rest/recover and get legs back. Sounds as if they think weary legs have contributed to some of the shooting issues. Also notes T. Anderson progressing.

— Jeff Potrykus (@jaypo1961) February 23, 2021

According to the BracketMatrix — an aggregation of the nation’s top bracketologists — Wisconsin is currently projected to be a No. 5 seed.

Tip off vs. the Illini is at 1 p.m. on Saturday.