John Tonje pretty much accomplished every individual accolade in college, especially in the last season with the Wisconsin Badgers.
Wisconsin Badgers, John Tonje
Mar 20, 2025; Denver, CO, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Tonje (9) looks on during the second half against the Montana Grizzlies in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
He was able to create his legend under head coach Greg Gard. He was named to the Consensus second-team All-American and the First-team All-Big Ten this season. Next up is the NBA draft.
Scouts and critics were not big on him in the last few months but after his historic performance against BYU Cougares where he scored 37 points despite the loss, some are taking notice.
ESPN puts him at 52nd spot in the NBA draft on June on their big board. The publication wrote:
Although Wisconsin fell to BYU in a second-round upset, Tonje’s spectacular 37-point showing in that game cemented his surprise sixth-year breakout and legitimacy as a draft candidate. Despite the poor track record of 24-year-old draftees breaking through in the NBA, Tonje’s strength, perimeter shooting and ability to get into the paint and to the line give him role player potential, considering the constant need for 3-point shooting role players.
NBA Draft 2025
May 15, 2018; Chicago, IL, USA; The podium with logos is seen prior to the 2018 NBA Draft Lottery at the Palmer House Hilton. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports
Tonje’s biggest obstacle right now is his age as according to critics, not many NBA teams are willing to take a risk on a 24-year-old. However, his skill set is more than enough for him to turn heads.
John Tonje says goodbye to Wisconsin Badgers
The outcome may have gone the way they wanted to but Tonje remains grateful for his last season in college hoops.
He came to the team from Missouri Tigers through the transfer portal after dealing with injury. Playing for Badgers, according to him, is a life-changing experience.
Wisconsin Badgers, John Tonje
Mar 20, 2025; Denver, CO, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Tonje (9) shoots the ball against Montana Grizzlies guard Money Williams (0) during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
“Thank you Wisconsin❤️ God blessed me beyond belief with this life changing experience. It has truly been an honor and dream come true to represent Wisconsin,” he said.
“The family, experiences, lessons, and memories I have developed here in Madison are ones I will never forget and runs way deeper than just basketball. I’m forever in debt to my teammates, coaches, and supporters, who made this year so special!! Love yall!!9️⃣ out.”
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