What are my biggest hopes for the Badgers this winter?
It’s the holiday season and there’s a lot going on in the Badgers sports world, so it’s the perfect time to reveal my letter to Santa containing my nine wishes, in no particular order, relating to UW sports.
There are only 12 days left until Christmas, so let’s get going.
Dear Santa—
‘Twas a lot more coal in my stocking in 2024 than I was hoping for, so here’s my new Christmas wish list for the Wisconsin Badgers as I look toward a better 2025. I’ve been (mostly) nice and only naughty to Gophers fans, so if you can find it in your heart to deliver on these, I would be most appreciative.
The “Spirit of Badgers Future” Visits Donors: Given the harsh new NIL/Portal realities, Wisconsin donors—and I mean the really deep pockets not the ones reading this who are chipping in $50—need to have a Scrooge-esque change of heart and decide that it’s finally time to allow Mac to play with the big boys (see Portal wish, below).
Another Final Four for Wisconsin Volleyball: It’s a big ask, as they have a tough Aggies team in the Elite Eight and then #1 Nebraska. But this is a wish list and I want to send Sheff’s seniors out with some magic.
Stud QB in the Portal: This might be the toughest wish on this list, but it’s time for the Badgers to have a star QB. Whether he’s from Pullman, Berkeley, or elsewhere, please make this happen, kind sir. Have you seen our 2025 schedule?
Another Mark Johnson Natty: In case you hadn’t noticed, Wisconsin Women’s Hockey hasn’t won a national title since 2023—that’s almost two whole years ago. We need to fix that, oh wise bearded one.
Sweet 16 for Greg Gard and Crew: I know this one seems a bit steeper given their current three-game losing streak, but the squad is talented and has it in them. This can be made easier by putting some rebounds in Steven Crowl’s stocking.
Big Time 2025 Win and Bowl Game: As I’ve noted, the Badgers’ 2025 football slate is cruel and unusual. So, oh jolly friend, please deliver two things to them: a huge upset win (Ohio State would be perfect), and a December back in the bowls. Amen!
Men’s Hockey Backdoor NCAA Bid: Although they’d been better lately, including a win over #1 MSU last weekend, the Badgers sit under .500 after a brutal start. How about a second-half rally to nab an at-large bid (Big Ten Tournament title would also work). This is a tricky one, but Mike Hastings has some magic in him. (Please forgive the fact that Owen Lindmark and Jack Horbach are Bears fans.)
March Madness for Wisconsin Women’s Basketball: It’s been a minute (15 years) since they’ve tasted March Madness, but the Badgers have been playing some good ball, led by do-everything star Serah Williams. Let this be the year for Coach Moseley’s crew, St. Nick.
Badger Peace and Love on Message Boards and Social Media: Yes, I can be naughty myself when eviscerating “Fire Gard” or “Never Fick” types, but a 2025 filled with more kindness and understanding amongst Badger fans would be awesome.
Your Don,
Scary Alvarez