John Tonje’s journey as a pro becomes official as the Utah Jazz confirmed that they have signed the Wisconsin Badgers basketball alum to a two-way contract.
John Tonje, Wisconsin Badgers
Mar 14, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Tonje (9) celebrates a made shot in the second half against the UCLA Bruins against the UCLA Bruins at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
𝙾𝙵𝙵𝙸𝙲𝙸𝙰𝙻𝙻𝚈 a 𝓙𝓪𝔃𝔃𝓶𝓪𝓷 🎷🎉
We have signed @johntonje1 to a two-way contract! ✍️
📓 | https://t.co/yHLoW66AiF#TakeNote pic.twitter.com/aQIokd0e7I
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) August 26, 2025
Tonje was picked 53rd overall by the Jazz in this year’s draft after an outstanding season with the Badgers where he averaged 19.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game in his lone season with them.
He participated in the team’s Summer League and averaged 10 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists on 33.3% shooting in two appearances which was due to an ankle sprain. He will split his time between the Jazz and their G-League affiliate Salt Lake City Stars.
John Tonje, Utah Jazz
Jul 14, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Utah Jazz forward John Tonje (17) celebrates with guard Isaiah Collier (8) after scoring against the San Antonio Spurs during the second half of a NBA basketball game at the Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images
The Jazz did not disclose the terms of his contract but standard salary suggests his projected earning is $636,435, equal to 50% of the minimum salary for players who haven’t played any NBA games.
John Tonje’s spot with Utah Jazz
Tonje may have been the superstar for the Badgers in the 2024-25 season but it will be more hardwork for him to earn a spot with the Jazz.
The 24-year-old shooting guard is one of the three rookies signed by the Jazz, led by no. 5 overall pick Ace Bailey. The other rookie is Walter Clayton Jr. who was picked 18th overall.
He played shooting guard in college but he is listed as a small forward depth. He is fourth in the depth chart in that position next to Bailey, Cody Williams, and Kyle Anderson.
Ace Bailey
Jun 25, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Ace Bailey signs autographs before the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Shooting guards in the team are 2024 NBA All-Rookie Second Team member Keyonte George, third year player Brice Sensabaugh, and journeyman Svi Mykahiliuk.
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