Kelly Karlis dribbles the basketball
David Stluka

Women's Basketball

Meet the Badgers: Kelly Karlis

Transfer calls Wisconsin her dream school

Women's Basketball

Meet the Badgers: Kelly Karlis

Transfer calls Wisconsin her dream school

MADISON, Wis. -- Transferring to her "dream school" has given redshirt senior Kelly Karlis a new outlook on her basketball career. The 6-2 guard joins the Badgers after three years at Ohio University where she averaged 6.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game as a junior.   
Karlis has to sit out this season due to NCAA transfer rules but the veteran has already shared her experiences with the younger players and is ready to lead Wisconsin to the next level.

Why did you decide to transfer to Wisconsin after playing at Ohio for three seasons?
"I had thought about making the move for a while and finally built up the courage to take that next step for the betterment of my career. I really appreciate everything that my coaches and teammates did for me in those three years at Ohio, but in the end, being closer to my family and friends along with being in a positive environment where I could grow on and off the court is what drew me to transfer."

You call Wisconsin your 'dream school.' What makes it perfect for you?
"I've always dreamed of going to a big school like this my whole like. The atmosphere is just amazing, especially on game days no matter the sport. The part that I absolutely love about this school is how this team has already made me feel like family. It was something that I was looking for when I was searching for my new home, so it has just been the cherry on top of this already amazing experience."

You have sit out this season due to NCAA transfer rules. What have you learned about yourself?
"I have learned to just always be confident and be myself. It took me a while to be myself and be confident in my game my freshman year. When I stepped into the Kohl Center however, I was myself from day one and never looked back. As I made the transition, I learned that I could not only play against the big dogs, but I was good enough to play right there beside them as well. As much as I try to encourage the underclassmen, I can't thank them enough already for how much they've boosted my confidence in this short amount of time."

How do you still contribute to the team during practice and games?
"During practice I really try to keep things positive. I know how many ups and downs I have had throughout these three years in college, so when I see a teammate getting down on themselves, I go over to them and try to pick them up. This is a team with a lot of young players, so just working on boosting their confidence every practice is something I try to bring to the table. I also like to think that I have a good sense of humor, so throwing a joke into the mix is something I like to do to keep the spirits up."

What would be your dream for Wisconsin basketball?
"My dream would be to make it to the NCAA tournament. I remember how much joy it brought to my teammates my freshman year and I could wish nothing more than that for this team right now. This Badger team is a group of such hardworking and encouraging teammates and I would love to see them pave the way for years to come!"
 
 
 
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Players Mentioned

Kelly Karlis

#2 Kelly Karlis

G
6' 2"
Senior

Players Mentioned

Kelly Karlis

#2 Kelly Karlis

6' 2"
Senior
G