Big Ten basketball team that made Final Four has shown genuine interest in John Blackwell

Big Ten basketball team that made Final Four has shown genuine interest in John Blackwell originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell didn’t just enter the transfer portal. He immediately became one of the most sought‑after players available, and the race to snag him is already underway.

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After a breakout junior season in which he averaged just over 19 points per game and earned All‑Big Ten honors, Blackwell’s decision sent shockwaves through a Wisconsin program that relied heavily on his scoring and playmaking.

Blackwell formed a potent backcourt duo with Nick Boyd, giving coach Greg Gard one of the conference’s most dynamic guard pairings. Even though Wisconsin’s NCAA Tournament run ended earlier than expected, Blackwell’s individual production was undeniable. He delivered multiple high‑volume scoring performances, showcased improved efficiency and consistently carried the Badgers in late‑game situations.

MORE: Illinois gets brutal Keaton Wagler NBA Draft news after Final Four loss

“John Blackwell is one of the top guards to hit the portal,” On3’s Joe Tipton wrote.

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Two key programs (and six total) have already emerged as early contenders: the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Duke Blue Devils. Others include the UCLA Bruins, Louisville Cardinals, Arizona Wildcats, and Alabama Crimson Tide.

Illinois makes sense for several reasons. It just wrapped up a surprise Final Four run, and the Illini ran into Blackwell on two separate occasions during the season, as he and the Badgers got the better of the Illini both times. This included a nail-biting 91-88 Big Ten Tournament loss in mid-March just before the NCAA Tournament began. Blackwell contributed 31 points, six rebounds and an assist.

MORE: Michigan’s national title win vs. UConn sets jaw-dropping records for TNT, CBS Sports

Duke’s interest hinges on NBA Draft decisions. If the…

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Publish date : 2026-04-13 20:40:00

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