Blackwell has a big opportunity for growth in 2025.
The Wisconsin Badgers got some big news this offseason when star guard John Blackwell elected to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft and return to school for his junior year.
While the draft never seemed like a realistic possibility for the guard, it didn’t hurt for him to test the waters and receive feedback ahead of his junior year on areas to grow to become a professional prospect.
Blackwell made it clear, however, that he was either going to enter the draft or return to Wisconsin, as the idea of hitting the transfer portal wasn’t even a possibility.
Now back in the fold, he’ll likely work alongside San Diego State transfer Nick Boyd in the backcourt, giving him more flexibility to work both on and off the ball.
Blackwell’s role changed this past season, as the sophomore was tasked with more lead guard duties following the departure of Chucky Hepburn, leaving the lack of a true point guard on the court.
With Boyd at the 1, Blackwell should be more at his natural position, while still taking over lead guard duties, Remember, as a freshman, the Michigan native excelled at catch-and-shoots from distance, hence why he shot 45.5 percent from deep in 2023-24.
After enjoying a breakout season this past year, what are the expectations for Blackwell as a junior?
While the bar shouldn’t be set too high to start, it’s not unrealistic to think that an All-Big Ten First Team season isn’t a possibility for Blackwell in 2025-26. After all, he very well may be a top two or three guard in the conference, with Purdue’s Braden Smith being the clear No. 1.
That would result in an All-Big Ten campaign if he is, with potentially even some national recognition coming as well.
As mentioned above, getting cleaner looks from three should improve Blackwell’s efficiency. He has already become more efficient inside the arc, and another year of getting stronger should only improve his slashing skills.
The growth as a facilitator and a defender, though, will be the areas to watch. Blackwell averaged 2.2 assists per game as a sophomore and had strong defensive moments, but also some more lapses as more was put on his plate.
He could emerge as one of the better defenders in the Big Ten next year with more growth in the area, while also getting more comfortable as a facilitator.
Regardless, the sheer scoring ability on good efficiency should put Blackwell in the First Team conversation. So, it seems fair that another All-Big Ten campaign should be the expectation heading into 2025-26.