John Tonje’s Mock Draft Projection to Milwaukee Bucks Could Be a Perfect Fit
John Tonje may be headed for a dream scenario in his transition to the pros. In ESPN’s latest NBA Mock Draft, the sharp-shooting wing is projected to go 47th overall to the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round—a move that would not only keep him in-state but also place him in an ideal system to thrive.
After wrapping up his college career with a breakout season at Wisconsin, Tonje has caught the attention of scouts and executives across the league. His potential landing with the Bucks isn’t just a feel-good local story—it’s a basketball fit that could benefit both sides.
A Seamless Fit in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s offensive identity under head coach Doc Rivers revolves around pace, space, and efficient floor spacing. The team is headlined by Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of the most dominant forces in the NBA, along with elite scorers like Damian Lillard and Kyle Kuzma. These stars command significant defensive attention, opening up opportunities for knockdown shooters and versatile wings—exactly where Tonje fits in.
Tonje’s ability to stretch the floor, move without the ball, and handle it in secondary actions would make him a natural fit on Milwaukee’s second unit. Imagine him playing alongside AJ Green, Bobby Portis, and Kevin Porter Jr.—a group that could use an additional perimeter weapon with the versatility to create his own shot or facilitate offensive movement.
From Setbacks to Stardom
Tonje’s road to the draft has been anything but conventional. The Omaha native began his college career at Colorado State, where he developed steadily over four seasons. He then transferred to Missouri, where a season-ending injury after just eight games cast some doubt on his future. However, a final stop at Wisconsin reignited his draft stock.
With the Badgers, Tonje had his most productive collegiate season yet. Averaging nearly 20 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, he emerged as one of the Big Ten’s most dynamic scorers. He shot a strong 47% from the field and knocked down 61 three-pointers—demonstrating both consistency and confidence from deep.
His All-American recognition in 2024–25 wasn’t just a result of his numbers, but his leadership and ability to elevate his play in big moments. He proved himself as a player who could adapt, recover from adversity, and lead.
Ready for the Next Step
Tonje stands 6-foot-5 and brings a mix of length, athleticism, and toughness—attributes that translate well to the NBA’s two-way expectations for wings. While he may not project as a primary scorer at the next level, his ability to contribute immediately as a role player on a contending team like Milwaukee makes him a highly appealing second-round option.
Beyond his shooting, Tonje can also handle the ball in transition and initiate in secondary pick-and-rolls, providing valuable flexibility for a bench unit. That kind of skill set is increasingly valuable in today’s NBA.
Draft Day Approaches
The 2025 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 25–26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. For Tonje, staying in Wisconsin and joining a perennial playoff contender would be an ideal launchpad for his professional journey.
In a league that values shooters, versatility, and mental toughness, Tonje checks all the boxes—and the Bucks could be the perfect organization to unlock the next chapter of his basketball career.
Would you like a breakdown of how Tonje compares statistically and stylistically to other recent second-round success stories?
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