Frank Kaminsky selected as keynote speaker for UW-Madison 2026 winter graduation

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - Wisconsin men’s basketball legend Frank Kaminsky was announced as the keynote speaker for Winter 2026 Commencement, the University of Wisconsin-Madison announced Monday.

Kaminsky led the Badgers to Final Fours in 2014 and 2015 during his time with the Badgers. Wisconsin also won the Big Ten Tournament in 2015.

In 2015, Kaminsky scored 20 points and had 11 rebounds to help the Badgers win against undefeated Kentucky to help the Badgers reach the national championship game for the first time in almost 75 years.

Kaminsky earned the Naismith, Associated Press, Oscar Robertson and John R. Wooden player of the year honors.

During his time with Wisconsin, Kaminsky set the Badgers’ program record by scoring 43 points in a game, a record that still stands.

“Basketball has taken me to all these different parts of the world,” Kaminsky said. “Now that things start to slow down, I get to really sit back and think about it and enjoy all the things I’ve accomplished. And be able to tell my story. And obviously Madison is such a huge part of that story. The UW has a super special place in my heart.”

Kaminsky went on to be selected ninth overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2015 NBA Draft.

Kaminsky also reached the 2021 NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns.

“What a thrill to have Frank Kaminsky back on campus. He brought joy to so many Badger fans during his time here,” said Eric Wilcots, UW–Madison’s interim chancellor. “Frank left UW and went on to achieve his highest dreams and potential. His is an inspiring story, and I know his commencement message will be powerful for this year’s graduates.”

UW-Madison said commencement speakers are selected by senior class officers in consultation with the Chancellor’s Office.