Badgers' Blackwell to hit portal, test draft process
Why it matters: John Blackwell's entry into the transfer portal impacts Wisconsin's roster and the competitive landscape for top college basketball programs.
- John Blackwell is entering the transfer portal and testing the NBA draft process, immediately becoming the top guard to announce portal intentions (ESPN).
- Blackwell is seeking a new program where he can enhance his skills for the NBA and compete for a national championship, emphasizing a standard of striving for excellence (Blackwell).
- The 6-foot-4 guard had a career-best season for the Badgers in 2025-26, averaging 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, with nearly 39% shooting from 3-point range (ESPN).
- Blackwell showcased exceptional postseason play, including 34 points and 10 rebounds in the Big Ten tournament and 22 points and 10 rebounds in the NCAA tournament (ESPN).
- He aims to improve his defense and ball-handling at the point guard position, hoping to find a school that allows more on-ball responsibility (Blackwell).
- Blackwell plans to make a decision on his next school within three to four weeks after taking visits (Blackwell).
Wisconsin star guard John Blackwell, a third-team All-Big Ten honoree, is entering the transfer portal while also testing the NBA draft waters, seeking a program that prioritizes national championships and NBA skill development. Blackwell, who averaged 19.1 points and 5.1 rebounds last season, aims to enhance his defensive skills and on-ball responsibilities at his next destination.
