Tony Granato was a standout forward for the University of Wisconsin from 1983 to 1987. In his senior season, he was a key leader for the Badgers, tallying 33 goals and 17 assists for 50 points in 37 games. His impressive performance earned him several honors, including a First-Team All-American selection and a top-ten nomination for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award in 1987. Granato finished his college career with 100 goals, a program record for a four-year player. He was a member of the Badgers’ 1987 WCHA championship team.

After his collegiate career, Granato went on to have a long and successful career in the NHL, playing in 774 games over 13 seasons for the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. He was known as a gritty goal-scorer and fan favorite, especially with the Kings. Granato had his best offensive season in 1996-97, when he scored a career-high 39 goals with the Sharks. He finished his career with 248 goals and 244 assists for 492 points. He also played for Team USA in the 1988 Winter Olympics and has had a successful coaching career in the NHL and at the University of Wisconsin.