Celtics Sign 24-Year-Old Guard To Two-Way Contract

John Tonje joins Boston after brief stints with Jazz, Bucks, and Celtics G League affiliate

Mar. 2, 2026 at 11:15pm

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The Boston Celtics have signed 24-year-old guard John Tonje to a two-way contract. Tonje's professional journey began after a standout college career at Colorado State, Wisconsin, and Missouri, where he earned consensus Second Team All-American and First Team All-Big Ten honors. He was drafted 53rd overall by the Utah Jazz in 2025 and has since had brief stints with the Jazz, Bucks, and Celtics G League affiliate before signing with the Celtics.

Why it matters

The Celtics are always looking to add young, talented players to their roster, and Tonje's impressive college career and early professional experience make him an intriguing two-way signing. As the Celtics continue their pursuit of an NBA championship, adding depth and developing young players will be crucial.

The details

After playing four seasons at Colorado State, Tonje transferred to Missouri and then Wisconsin for his final collegiate year in 2024-25. That season, he averaged 19.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, earning consensus Second Team All-American and unanimous First Team All-Big Ten honors. Tonje was drafted 53rd overall by the Utah Jazz in 2025 and signed a two-way contract, playing in the G League for the Salt Lake City Stars. He was later traded to the Celtics in a deal involving Chris Boucher and has since spent time with the Maine Celtics before signing a 10-day NBA contract with the Celtics on February 19, 2026.

  • Tonje played four seasons at Colorado State from 2019 to 2023.
  • In 2024-25, Tonje played his final collegiate season at Wisconsin.
  • Tonje was drafted 53rd overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2025 NBA Draft.
  • On February 5, 2026, Tonje was traded to the Celtics in a deal involving Chris Boucher.
  • Tonje signed a 10-day NBA contract with the Celtics on February 19, 2026.

The players

John Tonje

A 24-year-old guard who has played for Colorado State, Missouri, Wisconsin, and the Utah Jazz, Boston Celtics, and their G League affiliates.

Chris Boucher

An NBA player who was involved in the trade that sent Tonje from the Jazz to the Celtics.

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What’s next

Tonje will look to make the most of his two-way contract with the Celtics, hoping to earn a full NBA roster spot and contribute to the team's success this season.

The takeaway

The Celtics are always on the lookout for young, talented players who can provide depth and potential for the future. Tonje's signing is an example of the team's commitment to developing and integrating promising prospects into their championship-contending roster.