Wisconsin basketball guard John Blackwell makes surprising transfer portal decision
John Blackwell just wrapped up his best season at the University of Wisconsin, but instead of running it back, the 6-foot-4 guard is keeping his options wide open. Blackwell put up career numbers in 2025-26 CBB season, averaging 19. 1 points, 5.
1 rebounds and 2. 3 assists while shooting nearly 39% from three-point range. He saved his best performances for the biggest moments.
MORE: Barack Obama shouts out Lauren Betts, UCLA women’s basketball after historic win Blackwell dropped 34 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Washington in the Big Ten tournament, then went for 31 points in an overtime win over Illinois. Even when Wisconsin bowed out early in the NCAA tournament against High Point, he posted 22 points and 10 boards. Wisconsin basketball star testing NBA waters, enters transfer portal Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell.
Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images Now he’s testing both paths forward. Blackwell told ESPN’s Jeff Borzello that he will enter the NBA Draft process and the transfer portal at the same time, a shift from last year’s approach. He earned All-Big Ten honors this past season and instantly became the top guard available in the portal.
“It’s a tough decision,” Blackwell said. “I’m looking for a place where I can enhance my skills for the NBA and a place where I can compete for a national championship. A place where that’s the standard and what we’re striving for.