John Blackwell Returns for Year Three – Can He Take the Next Leap?
After a breakout sophomore campaign and a brief flirtation with the NBA Draft, star guard John Blackwell is back in Madison for his junior season. With key departures like John Tonje, Steven Crowl, and Max Klesmit, the Badgers are now firmly Blackwell’s team. His leap as a first-year starter in 2024 was undeniable — but just how high is his ceiling heading into 2025?
Blackwell started his collegiate career as an energetic contributor off the bench, averaging 8 points per game on an impressive 45% shooting from three-point range. As a sophomore, he nearly doubled his scoring output to 16 points per game while adding 5.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists, serving as Wisconsin’s second option behind Tonje. Now, with a retooled roster and several transfers entering the fold, Blackwell is expected to remain the centerpiece of Greg Gard’s offense. The question is: what does a full-fledged breakout look like?
Is This the Year Blackwell Reaches His Full Potential?
Blackwell’s role may evolve in 2025. Last season, he shouldered most of the point guard duties. This year, with San Diego State transfer Nick Boyd — a true facilitator — entering the lineup, Blackwell could shift between the one, two, and even three spots. While his scoring and rebounding numbers should remain strong, improved playmaking is key if he wants to elevate his NBA stock.
Blackwell posted 2.2 assists per game last year to go along with 2.1 turnovers — not exactly eye-catching distribution numbers. In contrast, Boyd recorded 3.9 assists to just 1.8 turnovers in his final year at SDSU. If Blackwell can raise his assist rate while maintaining or improving his scoring efficiency, he’ll become a much more complete offensive weapon.
Another area for growth? The three-point shot. After knocking down 45% of his triples as a freshman, Blackwell regressed to just 32% last season. Still, his sophomore slump wasn’t without bright spots — he shot over 40% from deep in 13 games. His ability to score at all three levels remains intact, and if he rediscovers consistency from long range, expect big offensive numbers.
What’s Next?
It’s clear Blackwell hasn’t hit his ceiling yet. With more spacing, a new supporting cast, and more responsibility on his shoulders, he’s poised to take another leap. How well he adapts alongside Wisconsin’s new faces will be critical, but the tools are there for him to become the Badgers’ next NBA first-rounder.
2025 Season Projection: 17.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists per game.
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