In a blow to the Wisconsin Badgers basketball program, star player AJ Storr has announced his decision to enter the NBA Draft, further exacerbating the team's struggles on and off the court. Storr's announcement comes on the heels of another talented player, Connor Essegian, entering the transfer portal, raising concerns about a potential mass exodus of talent and the program's future.

Storr, a dynamic guard/forward, has been the standout player for the Badgers, averaging nearly 17 points per game this season. However, despite his impressive performances, Storr's draft prospects are not projected to be high. The best-case scenario for him would be a late first-round selection, while the more realistic outcome is either being picked in the second round or going undrafted.

The decision by Storr to test the NBA waters instead of staying in Madison has raised eyebrows among fans and experts alike. The Badgers' recent disappointing performance in the NCAA Tournament, where they were humiliated in the first round by James Madison, has added fuel to the growing outrage.

In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram and through a statement to On3.com, Storr expressed his gratitude towards the University of Wisconsin and the Badgers' fans for their unwavering support. He acknowledged that playing at the highest level of basketball has always been his dream and felt that the NBA draft process was a pivotal moment in his career.

While Storr's decision to leave for the draft is certainly a blow to the program, the possibility of him returning to college but transferring to another school adds another layer of concern for Badgers fans. It would be a direct indictment of Coach Greg Gard's ability to retain and develop talent, especially considering Essegian's fall from grace following a highly promising season.

The offseason for Wisconsin is shaping up to be a tumultuous one, as the team grapples with the potential departure of key players and the lingering disappointment of their recent postseason exit. With Storr's future uncertain, the spotlight falls squarely on Gard and the program's ability to rebuild and maintain competitiveness.

Fans are left to wonder if this marked talent exodus and the team's recent struggles are indicative of a larger issue within the Wisconsin Badgers basketball program. As the offseason progresses, the questions and concerns surrounding the once-promising program only grow more pronounced.

It remains to be seen whether Storr's decision to enter the NBA Draft will prove fruitful, but his departure undoubtedly adds to the challenges facing the Wisconsin Badgers basketball program as it strives to return to its former glory.