The deadline to withdraw from the NBA Draft has now passed, and with it came some great news for Badger fans. Star guard John Blackwell announced his return to Wisconsin, but another former Badger also got some big help from the withdrawals.
Former player John Tonje has moved up five spots on ESPN’s Top 100 Big Board to number 42 after the numerous withdrawals ahead of him. Constantly projected as a mid to late second round pick, Tonje has continued to inch closer to the first round since the end of the Badgers’ season. With about a month left until the draft, he still has some time to push towards being a late first round selection.
Tonje looking to improve draft stock even further
While his offensive abilities on the court are undeniable, his age (24) and average defensive skills have kept him in the second round of the draft thus far. After averaging 19.6 points per game on his way to an All-America selection, Tonje went from a relative unknown to a top player in the game in just a few months. If he were just a few years younger, he may be a sure fire first round pick.
Tonje had one of the best seasons ever for a Badger and has set the pace for all future transfers to head to Madison. The 2025 roster will look much different from last year, and may have its own John Tonje just waiting to erupt.
The NBA Draft will hold the first round on June 25th, while for the first time ever, the second round will be held on a separate night on June 26th.