While Wisconsin and head coach Greg Gard may have recently missed out on a commitment from one 2026 in-state recruit in Zavier Zens, they did land a commitment from a different in-state senior on Wednesday. This came from Josh Manchester, a 6’4” guard of Mount Horeb High School and Team Herro. The commitment comes after Wisconsin had just offered him on Tuesday while on his visit. 

"Main things I like about Wisconsin is just how successful they have been and how the coaches all have a special connection to Wisconsin," Manchester said about his pick. "Just a special feeling to get to play for your hometown team."

Manchester is one of the top scorers in the history of Wisconsin high school basketball. During his career at Mount Horeb High School, he scored 2,534 points. This ranks for 10th-most in state history. In his senior season, he averaged 35.8 points per game. He was named a finalist for Wisconsin Mr. Basketball this past season as well to once again earning division two all-state honors by the WBCA.

“We’re excited to have Josh join our program,” Gard commented on the signing of Manchester. “Josh appreciates and understands the work and development that his role will require. He’s got a competitor’s mindset paired with a knack for scoring…Josh is really fired up to be a Badger. We can’t wait for him to arrive on campus this summer and get to work preparing for the coming season. We’re looking forward to helping Josh launch his college career.”

Before making his commitment and signing with the Badgers, Manchester has previously received several other offers. These came from East Tennessee State, Northern Illinois, Siena, and UW-Green Bay. Manchester joins another in-state commit in the 2026 class for Wisconsin joining LaTrevion Fenderson, a guard of DME Academy.