Wisconsin G John Blackwell to test portal, NBA draft interest

Blackwell averaged a career-high 19.1 points per game for the Badgers this past season.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:10pm

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Wisconsin guard John Blackwell has entered the transfer portal and plans to gauge interest from NBA teams during the draft process. Blackwell, a 3-year starter for the Badgers, had a career-best season in 2025-26, averaging 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. He scored 34 points against Washington in the Big Ten tournament and 31 against Illinois in the quarterfinals.

Why it matters

Blackwell's decision to enter the transfer portal and test his NBA draft stock is a significant move, as he was a key contributor for a Wisconsin team that had a strong season. His potential departure would be a major loss for the Badgers, who will need to find a way to replace his scoring and playmaking ability.

The details

Blackwell told ESPN that he made the decision to enter the transfer portal based on his desire to compete for a national championship and enhance his skills for the NBA. He shot 38.9% from 3-point range this past season and has drawn praise from Michigan State coach Tom Izzo. Blackwell would be an attractive option for programs like Michigan, who are looking to bolster their roster ahead of a potential national title run.

  • Blackwell entered the transfer portal on April 6, 2026.
  • He plans to participate in pre-draft camps to test his value to NBA teams before making a final decision on his future at the end of the month.

The players

John Blackwell

A 3-year starting guard for the Wisconsin Badgers who averaged a career-high 19.1 points per game in the 2025-26 season.

Tom Izzo

The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans, who has praised Blackwell's play in the past.

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What they’re saying

“I'm looking for a place where I can enhance my skills for the NBA and a place where I can compete for a national championship. A place where that's the standard and what we're striving for.”

— John Blackwell

What’s next

Blackwell plans to participate in pre-draft camps to test his value to NBA teams before making a final decision on his future at the end of the month.

The takeaway

Blackwell's decision to enter the transfer portal and test his NBA draft stock is a significant move that could have major implications for the Wisconsin Badgers. His potential departure would be a major loss for the program, but it also presents an opportunity for other schools to potentially add a talented scorer and playmaker to their roster.