Freshman Aleem Ford and walk-on freshman Michael Ballard will be sitting out the 2016-17 season, as UW announced that he will be redshirting. The move was expected with Ford not predicted to see much of the floor this season.

Ford is a Georgia native who attended IMG Academy with fellow Badger freshman D’Mitrik Trice. In his senior season at IMG Academy, Ford averaged 14.2 PPG, 6.8 RPG, and 2.2 BPG. Ford’s height, length, and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect for the Badgers in the future.

Ford said of the decision: “I’m looking forward to using this season to get stronger and improve my game. I talked it over with the coaches and we all agreed that this would be the best decision for me and my future.”

Ballard is an Oak Park, Ill. native. Greg Gard said of Ballard when he was given a spot on the team in June: “We are really excited to welcome Michael to the team. He is everything we are looking for in a walk-on: hard worker, team player, great student and can hold his own on the court as well. He comes from a winning program at Fenwick and should be a great addition.”

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