MADISON, Wis.-- Former Wisconsin wing John Tonje was one of the most impressive Badgers, and single-season transfers, of this era. During his year with the Badgers, the Nebraska native averaged nearly 20 points per game, receiving unanimous All-Big Ten honors as well as second-team All-American honors.
In the last NBA Draft (2025), Tonje was drafted by the Jazz in the second round, before getting a 10-day contract opportunity with one of the best organizations in the NBA: the Boston Celtics, with consistent playoff appearances and winning seasons. And following the end of the 10-day contract, the Celtics signed Tonje to a two-way deal, investing belief in him after he appeared late in two NBA games, registering his first points in a Regular Season NBA game after going 2/2 on the free throw line.
"Everybody has been coming in and giving 100% every day. And competing, making each other better. I wish I could choose one, but, I see a lot of guys that have been in the gym, competing and working hard every day, so I think we have all made a lot of jumps. I love it," Tonje told Badger247 during his time in Madison, about the transition to the Badgers, and the team as a whole.
Tonje and the Celtics are in search of win number 40 on the season, as they sit second in the Eastern Conference at this time. Tonje was dominant in his G League appearances so far this year, averaging over 18 points per game.
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