The Wisconsin Badgers are fully entrenched in the transfer portal currently, but got some major news regarding one of their players on Thursday, as star guard John Blackwell announced his intentions to enter the 2025 NBA Draft.
Blackwell will maintain his college eligibility and guaranteed a return to Wisconsin if he does pull out of the draft.
“Dear Badger Nation, After speaking with Coach Gard, the coaching staff, Life Sports Agency, and my family, I’m excited to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining my collegiate eligibility,” Blackwell wrote in a post. “My goal has always been to play in NBA, and going through the process will take me one step closer to my dream.
“I’d like to give glory to God as without him I wouldn’t be in this position. I’m extremely thankful for my family for their unwavering support and guidance during this process. I also want to thank my teammates, coaches, and the support staff for challenging me every day to become a better person and player. Finally, I’d like to thank our fans for their incredible energy and enthusiasm. They help make the Kohl Center such a special place to play.
“If I decide to wait another season before playing at the next level, I plan to come back to play for Coach Gard in Madison. Once a Badger, always a Badger!”
Head coach Greg Gard wrote a message of support, noting his guard’s desire to play in the NBA and the value of gaining feedback from NBA personnel.
“John and I have talked many times about his dream to play in the NBA and our staff and I fully support his decision to declare for the NBA Draft while maintaining his eligibility at Wisconsin,” Gard said.
“John has been a tremendous player for our program the last two seasons and has the drive to be the best player on the floor, wherever he is playing. This is a win-win opportunity for John to receive feedback from NBA personnel while retaining the ability to play for our program next fall.”
Blackwell is expected to be one of the team’s top returners in 2025 alongside forward Nolan Winter, providing building blocks for Wisconsin to work around as they attack the transfer portal.
Now, the guard is looking to explore his professional opportunities, but is keeping his options open, while the guarantee of a return to Madison if he stays in college is a good sign for the Badgers.
May 29th is the last day for college players to withdraw from the NBA Draft and maintain their college eligibility.