Top Destinations for Former Wisconsin Badgers Guard John Blackwell
John Blackwell, a prominent guard from the Wisconsin Badgers, is exploring new opportunities for his final college season. After a mentally demanding year, he is now entering both the NBA Draft process and the transfer portal. Blackwell announced his decision to conclude his time with the Badgers, regardless of his next steps in professional basketball.
John Blackwell’s Performance and Achievements
During his time with Wisconsin, Blackwell established himself as one of the standout guards in college basketball. He averaged 19 points, five rebounds, two assists, and one steal per game. His shooting statistics were impressive with:
- 43.0% overall field goal percentage
- 38.9% from three-point range
- 85.9% from the free-throw line
His accomplishments earned him third-team All-Big Ten honors and a spot on the conference’s all-tournament team. He is one of only nine Big Ten players since 2000 to achieve those averages.
Top Destinations for John Blackwell
As Blackwell seeks his next program, three schools have emerged as potential landing spots:
Illinois
Illinois is gaining traction after reaching the Final Four for the first time since 2005. Blackwell attended the national semifinals and has been in contact with head coach Brad Underwood. With the graduation of starting guard Kylan Boswell and the possible departure of All-Big Ten guard Keaton Wagler to the NBA, Illinois presents an attractive opportunity for Blackwell. The roster includes promising frontcourt players like:
- David Mirkovic
- Andrej Stojakovic
- Tomislav Ivisic
Michigan
Michigan also presents a compelling choice for Blackwell. Under head coach Dusty May, the Wolverines have constructed a competitive team primarily through the transfer portal. With guard Nimari Burnett and Roddy Gayle Jr. departing after this season, there is room for Blackwell to step in seamlessly. Having grown up near Ann Arbor, he could be inclined to join a program that has proven to be successful.
Duke
Duke is another prestigious option. With a top-rated recruiting class coming in, the Blue Devils will have a roster brimming with talent. While they will likely lose key players, the team still offers a strong foundation. Blackwell could add veteran experience to this top-tier program, especially in a season where Duke aims for a championship after recent disappointments in the NCAA Tournament.
Looking Ahead
With significant interest surrounding his potential next steps, John Blackwell will likely make a decision that maximizes his exposure and development. As he navigates both the NBA Draft and the transfer portal, his future in college basketball is poised for excitement and opportunity.
