After giving Wisconsin basketball one of the most memorable one-and-done performances ever, John Tonje set his sights on the NBA. He was selected in the second round of the this year's draft by the Utah Jazz, and was later signed to a two-way deal. But as the Jazz open up their season tonight, it appears that Tonje still has a long journey ahead.
After Summer League and preseason, Tonje will start his career deep down the depth chart for Utah. He played just 13 minutes in the preseason and never really looked to be even a rotational player for this year's squad. Ultimately, he'll likely see more playing time with their G-League team the Salt Lake City Stars.
Former Badger John Tonje still has difficult path to NBA dreams
It's not too surprising that he still has a way to go, after all Tonje was a second-round pick. But the other factor here is that Tonje is already 24 years old. He doesn't have the same developmental runway that some of the other NBA rookies will get playing in the G-League. Besides, the Jazz will obviously favor their top pick, Rutgers' Ace Bailey.
Still, the former Badger and All-American has a chance to eventually carve out a role with his elite shooting and ability to get to the foul line. Tonje averaged nearly 20 points per game at Wisconsin, and shooting consistently follows players to the league.
The Jazz will kick off their season tonight against the Los Angeles Clippers.