Greg Gard turned around a Badgers season that seemed hopeless just two months ago. And now, The University of Wisconsin is returning the favor by making Gard the permanent replacement for Bo Ryan.

The school approved Monday a five year contract for Gard, who will be officially introduced as the team's head coach Tuesday afternoon. Gard has been at the helm of the Wisconsin program since mid-December, and has overseen a turnaround from a 9-9 record to a top 25 poll appearance and an all-but-assured spot in the NCAA Tournament.

Wisconsin battles either Nebraska or Rutgers in the Big Ten Tournament in Indianapolis Thursday evening.