Wisconsin Badgers news, 6/13: UW reunion likely on 'Hard Knocks'

Football

Head coach Gary Andersen and his staff secured their ninth commitment for the class of 2015, as Florida-based linebacker Nick Thomas announced his intention to attend UW. The three-star linebacker will enroll in the spring of 2015.

For a guy who hasn't yielded much production from the wide receiver position, it's expected Kenzel Doe will finally deliver, given the options are rather bleak on the outside. To Fox Sports Wisconsin's Jesse Temple, the North Carolina native is UW's 7th most important player.

The Atlanta Falcons will be featured on this year's "Hard Knocks" show on HBO. This means a number of Badgers could possibly be showcased, including Dezmen Southward, Jacob Pedersen, Gabe Carimi, Peter Konz and Brian Wozniak.

Speaking of Southward, he signed his rookie contract on Thursday. His signing bonus is, um, large.

Falcons' deal for third-round safety Dez Southward is worth $3.125 million, including $690,832 signing bonus

— Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) June 12, 2014

Basketball

Even though Rashard Griffith only played two seasons at UW, he still makes an effort to come back to Madison. Head coach Bo Ryan has welcomed him with arms wide open.

Hockey

On the same day as the Blake Geoffrion Hockey Classic, former UW skater Joe Pavelski will hold a charity golf outing in Stevens Point to benefit the Stevens Point Area Youth Hockey Association.

What a save by Derek Stepan to extend the New York Rangers' season for at least one more game. Plus, Ryan McDonagh registered a +1 rating. Game 5 is scheduled for tonight.

So close, Kings.

Recruiting

Andrew details the prospects who will be in Madison this weekend as part of our latest recruiting notebook.

Quick Hitters

Sports Illustrated's MMQB asks some NFL'ers, both players and front-office members, the influence their fathers, or father figures, had in their lives. It's phenomenal.

Steve Stricker is tied for 16th at the U.S. Open after shooting an even-par 70 at Pinehurst on Thursday.