Former Wisconsin basketball great Sam Dekker announcement by X On Monday, he returned to the University of Wisconsin-Madison to complete his studies.
Dekker, one of the program’s most decorated alumni, left the university in 2015 after three years on the court to pursue his NBA aspirations. In doing so a year early, he left campus without a degree.
After being selected 18th overall in the 2015 NBA draft, the Wisconsin native played 201 games over five NBA seasons for the Houston Rockets, The Los Angeles Clippers, The Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Wizards And Toronto Raptors from 2015 to 22.
Overseas stints with the VTB United League in Russia (2019-2020) and the Turkish Basketball Super League in Turkey (2020-2021, 2021-2022) followed.
The 6’1″ forward is the star of the London Lions of the British Basketball League. As an offensive engine, Dekker helped the Lions win the 2023 British Basketball League Cup championship and earned league and finals MVP honors. He averaged 18.2 points, 5.6 rebounds on 53% shooting from the field in nearly 21 minutes per appearance overseas in 2023.
I have officially renewed my request to continue my responsibilities as a student-athlete at @UWMadison today. I am delighted to have completed my remaining credits and become a proud graduate of the best university in the world #OnWisconsin
— Sam Dekker (@dekker) August 20, 2024
Still, Dekker’s efforts in the NBA have yet to falter. This summer, the 2015 All-Big Ten second-team selection try for the Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors and Milwaukee Bucks.
With a portfolio of playoff success at Wisconsin and professional exposure thousands of miles away, Dekker can provide a veteran presence in an NBA locker room next season. However, with classroom responsibilities, the NBA could serve as a distraction from future assignments.
Now 30, Dekker plans to complete his education at one of the most recognized public universities in the United States.