Former Wisconsin Guard John Blackwell Transfers to Duke

John Blackwell, a former University of Wisconsin guard and All-Big Ten selection, has committed to Duke University's men's basketball program for the upcoming season.

The transfer was announced by Blackwell on social media on Tuesday. He played for Wisconsin for the past three seasons and will now join the Blue Devils.

Player Profile and Statistical Performance

During his final season at Wisconsin, Blackwell averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His performance earned him a spot on the All-Big Ten third team, and he was ranked No. 6 on On3's list of available transfers.

Blackwell demonstrated notable efficiency in several areas:

• He made 38.9% of his three-point attempts.
• He had a free throw percentage of 86.3%.
• According to KenPom, he drew 5 fouls per 40 minutes of play.

His standout performances included scoring 26 points against Michigan on January 10, averaging 26 points across three Big Ten tournament games, and scoring 22 points in Wisconsin's NCAA Tournament first-round game.

Duke's Roster Developments

Blackwell joins a Duke program that has seen several significant roster developments in recent weeks:

• Duke players Cayden Boozer and Patrick Ngongba II have announced they will return to the team.
• Guards Dame Sarr and Caleb Foster are also expected to return.
• The program is bringing in a freshman class that includes three five-star recruits: forward Cam Williams, guard Deron Rippey Jr., and wing Bryson Howard.

Context of Previous Seasons

• Wisconsin's 2023-24 Season: Blackwell was a two-year starter for the Badgers. Wisconsin finished the season with a 24-11 record and was eliminated in the first round of the NCAA tournament.
• Duke's 2023-24 Season: Duke was the No. 1 overall seed in the 2024 NCAA tournament, finished with a 35-3 record, and lost to the University of Connecticut in the Elite Eight.