Wisconsin’s NBA Draft Duo: John Tonje Rises, John Blackwell Holds the Badgers’ Future in His Hands
The 2025 NBA Draft cycle has given Wisconsin basketball fans a rare reason to keep close tabs on the pre-draft process. Two of the program’s brightest stars—John Tonje and John Blackwell—have declared for the NBA Draft, though under very different circumstances. Tonje is considered a solid second-round pick, while Blackwell remains on the fringe, having declared while maintaining college eligibility.
This dynamic introduces a pivotal storyline for the Badgers: Tonje’s pro aspirations appear firmly set, while Blackwell’s decision—whether to stay in the draft or return to Wisconsin—may ultimately determine the fate of the Badgers’ 2025–26 season.
John Tonje: From Transfer to Draft Target
John Tonje’s basketball journey is one of perseverance, adaptability, and surprising dominance. Once a mid-major standout at Colorado State, Tonje emerged in the national spotlight during his final collegiate season at Wisconsin. After an injury-shortened stint at Missouri in 2023–24, many wondered how he would adapt in the Big Ten. Tonje responded emphatically, averaging 19.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, earning All-American honors and becoming Wisconsin’s go-to scorer.
His offensive repertoire—strong perimeter shooting, effective shot creation, and the ability to play within a system—has intrigued NBA scouts. ESPN currently projects Tonje as a second-round pick, with The Athletic recently slating him at No. 41 overall to the Golden State Warriors.
This mock placement would put Tonje in a favorable position: a franchise known for developing wings, utilizing shooters, and providing stability through its championship core. In a draft class light on surefire contributors outside the top 20, Tonje’s proven college production stands out as a selling point for teams seeking immediate bench value.
He may not be a star at the next level, but his experience, toughness, and shot-making could translate well to a role in the NBA—particularly on a second unit that values high-IQ, low-mistake basketball.
John Blackwell: Undrafted, But Undecided
While Tonje seems poised to begin his professional career, the spotlight now shifts to John Blackwell, who is testing the NBA waters while retaining NCAA eligibility. Blackwell, a talented guard with excellent instincts and two-way upside, has not yet appeared in most major mock drafts. The Athletic currently lists him as undrafted.
That’s welcome news for Wisconsin fans. The longer Blackwell stays off draft boards, the more likely it is he will withdraw from the draft by the NCAA deadline of June 15 at 5 p.m. ET and return to Madison for his sophomore season.
Blackwell’s return could be a make-or-break factor for the Badgers next season. As one of the top returning players in the Big Ten—if he comes back—Blackwell would likely lead Wisconsin’s offense. With Tonje departing and other contributors aging out or transferring, Blackwell represents continuity, leadership, and the potential to become the next face of the program.
Should Blackwell show significant improvement in his pre-draft workouts or climb into the second round of mock drafts in May or early June, his calculus could shift. But for now, his current undrafted status suggests that the NBA views him as a player who would benefit from another year of development.
A Crucial Month Ahead for Wisconsin
Over the next six weeks, all eyes will be on Blackwell’s draft stock. His participation in the NBA Combine, team workouts, and interviews will either validate his current projection or propel him onto team radars. Meanwhile, fans and coaches in Madison will be holding their breath.
If Blackwell returns, the Badgers retain a key backcourt leader and could make a legitimate push for the top tier of the Big Ten in 2025–26. If he stays in the draft, Wisconsin’s roster rebuild gets much steeper.
Either way, Tonje’s rise has already become a win for the program—a development story to be proud of. Now, Blackwell’s decision will determine just how far the momentum can carry.
Would you like a comparative analysis of Blackwell’s stats versus recent second-round picks to evaluate his draft chances?
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