Max Klesmit struggles with emotion while reflecting on his final thoughts after the BYU loss

An emotional moment from Klesmit.

These seniors poured everything into this season. Now that some time has passed since the tough 91-89 loss to BYU in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, it’s a moment to look back on just how remarkable this group of Wisconsin basketball players was.

Though the season ended in disappointment, this team was undeniably exciting to watch. Remember when they were predicted to finish 12th in the Big Ten? That was far from the reality. Instead, the Badgers achieved 27 wins, made it to the conference tournament final, and were just a play or two away from making it to the Sweet Sixteen.

The fact that the Badgers came so close to a dramatic comeback against BYU only makes it harder for the players who wore a UW jersey for the final time. Max Klesmit, in particular, fought through tears while addressing the media after the game ended. He wasn’t alone in his devastation, as Kamari McGee and Carter Gilmore were visibly affected too.

Max Klesmit will always cherish his time playing for the Wisconsin Badgers

That emotional moment is difficult to watch. It’s easy to forget that these players are still young men with their own emotions, just like anyone else. The hard work and dedication they put in over the years to elevate the program is something the fans undoubtedly value.

Wisconsin was so close to overcoming a double-digit deficit to BYU. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be, and Klesmit, along with his teammates, will likely reflect on what might have been for quite a while.

Klesmit finished the game with 12 points. He spent the first two years of his college career at Wofford before transferring to Wisconsin ahead of the 2022-23 season. Being a Wisconsin native, playing for the Badgers was a dream come true for him and something he will always treasure.