Wisconsin and Greg Gard have found its third assistant coach to fill the vacancy left after Bo Ryan retired last week.
Howard Moore, former UW player (1990-1995) and assistant coach (2005-2010) will return, per sources, as a Badgers assistant. Moore left Wisconsin in 2010 to coach UIC through last season.
The hire does not come as a surprise, as Moore had been working at Big Ten Network as an analyst. With most coaches already mid-way through their seasons, Moore may have been one of the team’s only options. Luckily for Gard and his staff, Moore has already worked with Gard and assistant coach Gary Close and can jump into the system right away. He was also reportedly around Badgers practices a lot before the season started, prepping for his Big Ten Network gig.
“Given the timing and the situation, bringing in Howard is a home run for our program and players,” Gard said. “To have the ability to bring in someone with his experience and knowledge of the way we do things is a perfect fit and win-win. He was a part of our championship team in 2008 and he has a passion for UW that is unparalleled. He loved his experience here and has a deep affection for this place and its people. We’re extremely fortunate to have someone like Howard available and eager to join our staff.”
“I’m extremely excited to get back to Madison. I’ve had a chance to get a breather and the best way to get re-energized is to go home again,” Moore said. “I love my alma mater and I have a great passion for the University of Wisconsin. I want to make sure the things that were put in place by this staff and Coach Ryan stay intact. Greg Gard is very good friend who I support and if there is anything I can do to help him, I want to do that.”
Moore’s familiarity with the program will go a long way for the Badgers, as Gard and athletic director Barry Alvarez were not certain the position would even be filled so late in the season.
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