Wisconsin Basketball Point Guard ‘Welcomes Pressure With Open Arms’

Notably, Freitag is considered the highest-rated point guard recruit in Wisconsin basketball program history. Per the composite rankings, Freitag is the No. 11 point guard in the country and the No. 2 player in Minnesota.

The 6-foot-3 Minneapolis native possesses ideal size for the lead guard position and is already at a place physically where he will see the floor once he steps onto campus. Freitag has above-average athleticism, is a playmaker who can create for himself and others, is a strong finisher around the basket, and flat-out scores the basketball from all three levels.

“Daniel is an excellent addition to our program,” Gard said on National Signing Day. “We identified him early in the process, not only as a player but also as a person we want inside of our locker room. His infectious personality and bright smile will make him a fan favorite. Daniel has the kind of perspective and values that align perfectly with who we are as a program.”

It goes without saying that Hepburn’s unexpected departure altered the dynamic of the Wisconsin basketball team. Still, Freitag’s presence helps ease the blow for the upcoming season. Coach Gard may also add an experienced plug-and-play point guard to replenish their depth and serve as a mentor before the transfer portal closes, so all hope is not lost. 

Acknowledging the buzz surrounding NIL deals in collegiate athletics, Freitag offers a refreshing perspective firmly rooted in his core values. While he recognizes the influence NIL can have when making career decisions, he emphasized that his time with the Badgers will not revolve around chasing a paycheck, noting he has little interest in short-term gains. 

“I view NIL money as short term, and I view success down the road as long term,” Freitag told Badgernotes. “I only ever had conversations with the Universities recruiting me about NIL if they brought it up, and even then, it was brief. 

“I told myself at the beginning of my recruiting process that I was going to go to the place that valued me, prioritized me, and made it clear they wanted the best for me, not just somewhere with a lot of money. UW was the clear front runner my entire recruiting process as far as being genuine and making it clear I was a priority. 

“What Wisconsin basketball had to offer me was in-line with my priorities completely, so money was just a bonus. So while other universities may have larger NIL bags to give out, I believe that if I prioritize the things I value, money will follow, not the other way around.”