Nau Commits to Hillsdale
One of the state’s top ranked players came off the board Monday as Brookfield Central 2019 guard Cole Nau announced his commitment to Division 2 Hillsdale. A high-IQ floor general and two-way player, Nau could be another program elevator out of Wisconsin for the Chargers.
“I liked the coaches, I like the style of play they have,” Nau told Prep Hoops Wisconsin. “I wanted to commit before basketball season and not worry about that stuff.
“I wanted to get it out of the way so I can focus on our team.”
Nau had other offers from Air Force and St. Cloud State.
As a junior, Nau averaged 14.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game for the Lancers. Playing off the ball in high school alongside Gage Malensek, Nau will take over the point duties for Hillsdale.
“They like me as a point guard,” said Nau. “They like the way I share the ball and play defense. They think I can help right away.”
Nau and Central have won back-to-back Greater Metro championships.Nau is the third Wisconsin native to play for Hillsdale in the two recruiting cycles, joining Patrick Cartier (Brookfield East) and Jack Gohlke (Pewaukee).
“That played a big role,” said Nau. “I’ve known Patrick since I was little. I played on his baseball team. I played AAU with Jack too.”
Nau was also receiving interest from a handful of Division 1 programs going into his senior season. While chasing those offers was tempting, Nau wanted to reward Hillsdale’s loyalty and had a great official visit in September.
“It was definitely difficult to make that decision, but after going on a couple visits, I knew it was the place for me,” he said. “I didn’t real feel like waiting it out. They really wanted me and recruited me hard. They were at every single AAU game.
“The culture of the team was awesome. I got to play with them in an open gym. All the guys are really competitive and all have the same values as me.”
Nau, the state’s fourth ranked player in 2019, has helped lead Central to back-to-back Greater Metro Conference championships and a combined record of 43-8 over the last two seasons.
With his recruitment wrapped up, Nau has his eyes on something bigger in 2018-19.
“Now I can focus on winning a state championship with Gage, who I’ve played with since sixth grade,” he said. “It’s our last time together. It’s going to be special.”