John Tonje is among the rookies leading the Utah Jazz in the NBA Summer League after the Wisconsin Badgers alum was selected 53rd overall in the recent NBA Draft.
Steven Crowl, John Tonje
Jan 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Dylan Andrews (2) passes the ball between Wisconsin Badgers forward Steven Crowl (22) and Wisconsin Badgers guard John Tonje (9) during the first half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
He and former teammate Steven Crowl is part of the rebuilding club’s roster for next week’s games as they try to earn a spot in the team’s final roster.
Between the two, Tonje is a step closer to the final 2025-2026 NBA season squad according to reports.
Sports Illustrated wrote:
As the Jazz will have 13 guaranteed contracts and three non-guaranteed contracts already on the books for the 2025-26 season, Utah could simply opt to keep Tonje on a two-way deal for his rookie season, but certainly have the flexibility to sign him onto a traditional contract if they so desire.
Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz
Jun 25, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Ace Bailey looks on after being selected as the fifth pick by the Utah in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The other top rookie in the line-up is no. 5 pick Ace Bailey who was controversial leading up to the draft day.
John Tonje says he is ready for the challenge
Tonje is not the more heralded player in his class unlike when he was still with the Badgers. He was actually predicted to get picked higher but then his stock fell off.
He does not care and all he thinks about is getting the opportunity.
“That was a little bit outside my range,” Tonje told reporters.
“At the end of the day, I’m super excited to be here and just so happy I’m here with the Jazz.”
He also said that he is used to getting doubted. He was not a huge prospect in high school but still managed to make a name for himself. That’s what he is hoping to do in the professional ranks.
John Tonje, Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin Badgers guard John Tonje (9) smiles while guarding Michigan State Spartans guard Jeremy Fears Jr. (1) on 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.
“I think I had a lot of adversity,” he said.
“Had to work my way up. I’ve been the last guy on the bench and then the guy at the top of the scouting report, so I think I’m someone that can understand all types of roles on the team, how to face adversity and try to get better every day.”
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