Wisconsin Basketball 2024-25 Breakout Candidate: John Blackwell

While last year’s early tournament exit led for some uncertainty going into the offseason, several constants and building blocks remain in the Wisconsin men’s basketball program. One of these obvious building blocks is Badgers rising sophomore John Blackwell.

Blackwell was an integral part of a Wisconsin basketball team that ended fifth in the Big Ten and achieved a five seed in the NCAA tournament. That Badgers team was filled with several high-level guards, but AJ Storr and Chucky Hepburn departing leaves holes in the starting lineup.

Wisconsin Basketball Found an Instant Impact Guard

While not starting, Blackwell earned a spot on the 2023-24 Big Ten all-freshman team. The rising sophomore excelled in his role off the bench, averaging 8.0 points, and 3.2 rebounds per game last season. 

However, it was not the number of points that pops off the page, it is his efficiency. Blackwell was an incredible shooter last year, good for 45.5 percent from 3-point range. This offensive ability will be much needed for a Wisconsin basketball team losing three starters.

Badgers Freshman Showed Promising Traits

It isn’t just the scoring that excites Wisconsin Badgers fans. Blackwell showed flashes of being an elite passer with a high basketball IQ. The rising sophomore averaged less than an assist per game, but that was largely due to his role as a scorer, not a facilitator. 

In the upcoming season, Blackwell should be asked to handle the ball more and will use his versatility to be a major factor passing the ball. It certainly helps that Wisconsin basketball returns key players in Max Klesmit and Steven Crowl to stretch the floor.