Utah Jazz Vice President of Player Development Avery Bradley hailed their 53rd overall pick John Tonje for his great shooting ability, suggesting that the ex Wisconsin Badgers star will become part of their squad for the 2025-2026 season.
Wisconsin Badgers, John Tonje
Wisconsin Badgers guard John Tonje (9) goes up for a basket Saturday, March 15, 2025, in a semifinals game at the 2025 TIAA Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament between the Michigan State Spartans and the Wisconsin Badgers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Wisconsin Badgers defeated the Michigan State Spartans, 77-74.
Tonje’s shooting has been his main weapon in college and even broke multiple scoring records in his first and only year with the UW.
There’s something more he can offer and his former head coach Greg Gard knows exactly what it is. This is what will make the 24-year-old a solid player according to him.
“We are so happy for John,” Gard told UWBadgers.com when asked for a message about his former player.
“He’s worked for a long time for this moment and has scratched and clawed his way to being an elite player. Utah is going to love what he brings to the organization.
John Tonje, NBA Draft, Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin guard John Tonje (9) listens to head coach Greg Gard during the second half of their game Saturday, February 22, 2025 at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wisconsin. Oregon beat Wisconsin 77-73 in overtime.
“He’s humble, mature and selfless, along with having a relentless drive to get better every day. He was an absolute joy to coach at Wisconsin and I’m ecstatic to watch his career unfold in the NBA.”
John Tonje in Jazz roster’s depth
The Jazz are expected to keep Tonje although the roster is still filled with shooting guards. They are, however, expected to make moves in the trade market.
The team has two first round draft picks. They picked Ace Bailey for their fifth pick and Walter Clayton Jr. for 18th selection. Bailey is a small forward but he might also slide to SG from time to time.
Utah Jazz, Collin Sexton, Kessler Walker, Jordan Clarkson
Feb 18, 2023; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Team Jazz guard Collin Sexton (2), center Walker Kessler (24) and guard Jordan Clarkson (00) pose for a photo with their trophies after winning the Skills Competition during the 2023 All Star Saturday Night at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Veterans who play the same position as Tonje are Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton. Both players are part of recent trade rumors as the team continue their rebuilding era.
Other players expected to compete for the SG/G spot are Jaden Springer, Johnny Juzang who played 64 games last season, and 2024 29th pick Isaiah Collier.
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