Steven Crowl Pens Emotional Goodbye to Wisconsin Basketball
Madison, WI — For the first time in five seasons, the Wisconsin basketball frontcourt will not be anchored by Steven Crowl this November. The longtime Wisconsin Badgers big man exhausted his eligibility this March, along with five other members of UW’s senior class.
The Eagan, Minnesota native played all five of his college basketball seasons under Badgers head coach Greg Gard. In an era of player movement, examples of players staying that long with one program are few and far between. Wisconsin’s next projected crop of seniors leaving campus in 2026 include Xavier Amos, who will have spent two seasons in Madison, and Isaac Gard, who does not get enough playing time, according to his mother/Coach Gard’s wife.
With exceptions for the son of a coach put aside, there may not be many Crowl’s moving forward in Madison. After his four years as the Badgers’ starting center, “Big Steve” took to social media to say his goodbyes.
Wisconsin Basketball Center Steven Crowl ‘Forever Proud to be a Badger’
“As I reflect on my time here, my heart is filled with gratitude, memories, and pride,” Crowl said in an Instagram post Monday. “Being a Badger has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and while it’s hard to say goodbye, I leave with a deep appreciation for this journey.”
That journey included appearances in 153 games in a Wisconsin uniform – the third-most in program history behind only Tyler Wahl and Brad Davison.
“To my coaches and teammates: Thank you for believing in me, pushing me, and standing beside me. The bond we’ve built is more than just a team—it’s a brotherhood that will last forever. Through every battle, every win, and every challenge, we became family. No matter where life takes us, we’ll always be brothers.”
There were plenty of wins for Crowl. With a win over the Washington Huskies in February, the Eastview High School product became just the fifth player to reach the 100-win mark with Wisconsin basketball. Crowl finished with 105 wins, one shy of his former teammate Wahl’s 106.
“To my support system: Your encouragement has meant everything. Thank you for standing by me through every high and low.
“To Badger Nation: Your passion and support have fueled me every step of the way. You’ve shown me what it truly means to be part of something bigger than myself.
As this chapter closes, I take with me not just memories, but a family for life. Wisconsin will always be home, and I’ll forever be proud to be a Badger. 
With love and gratitude, Big Steve.On Wisconsin ”
During his time with the Badgers, Crowl and Wisconsin won a Big Ten championship, appeared in four NCAA Tournaments, and advanced to the Big Ten Tournament final twice.
