John Tonje keeps making his NBA case with another standout Summer League performance

John Tonje got his second crack at minutes in the 2026 NBA summer league with the Boston Celtics and much like his first game, Tonje did what he always does; produce. The former Wisconsin Badger basketball legend finished with 17 points, 5 rebounds and a steal, shooting 3-of-4 from three in route to an 87-75 Celtics victory. 

Entering summer league, it was unclear what kind of leash Tonje would be given, due to the fact that he wasnt announced to be on any kind of NBA contract. However, after his first two games, it seems as if it is going to be impossible to continue to deny him a spot on a roster. 

Well Rounded Skillset

The biggest reason behind this building narrative is Tonje’s shooting ability. Badger and college basketball fans alike more than likely already know about just how lethal he can be as a perimeter scorer. But even the biggest of Tonje’s fans likely couldn't have projected him to shoot 61.4% from three on 6.5 attempts a game through his first two games. 

It isnt just the shooting that has stood out though, as Tonje has figured out how to impact the game in a multitude of ways. One of the biggest questions about him as a prospect entering the NBA was how he was going to impact the game when the offense wasnt centered around him. Although it would be unfair to overreact to him having two solid games, Tonje has made it clear that he has put an emphasis on rounding out his entire game. 

On defense is where Tonje has impressed the most thus far. He has done a great job at guarding at the point of attack, consistently making opposing ball handlers life more difficult and getting his hands on the basketball. In back to back games now, Tonje has converted defense into offense as well, converting a game winning steal and slam in game one and another steal and slam in the third quarter of his most recent contest. 

Its rare to see a guy like Tonje seemingly flip a switch at his age in his approach to the sport, turning from a score first, helio centric lite player to a truly impactful two way player. Those scoring instincts have stuck with him too, now working in his advantage, allowing him to score the ball effectively attacking closeouts and in the occasional ball screen rep. 

Overall, its going to be hard to deny Tonje a roster spot moving forward. He may not provide the most upside as player who provides hefty minute moving forward, but guys who can shoot like him, score like him and now, defend like him, tend to stick around in the modern NBA.

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