Wisconsin’s long season has taken a toll on freshman Connor Essegian, but he remains locked in mentally heading into the NIT semifinals

LAS VEGAS – Connor Essegian is heavier – and stronger – than when he arrived at Wisconsin last summer.

For example, the 6-foot-4 freshman guard weighs 195 pounds. That is an increase of almost 15 pounds from his reporting weight.

Nevertheless, UW’s 34-game season has taken a toll on Essegian’s legs and the effect can be seen in his shooting numbers.

“Mentally I am still locked in so I am going to say it is physical,”…