Duke’s John Blackwell Entering Season With Lofty National Status

Duke basketball newcomer John Blackwell is set up for a big-time senior season in Durham.

The Wisconsin transfer was arguably the top backcourt piece in this offseason’s transfer portal cycle and one of the best overall talents. He now joins a Duke roster built to make him the focal point offensively.

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Blackwell was one of the best scoring guards in college basketball last season and enters his first campaign with Duke expected to be a big-time shot-maker. It’s clear entering the season that a lot of eyes will be on the senior.

Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard Braeden Carrington (0) and guard John Blackwell (25) react during the second half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Duke’s John Blackwell Ranked As Nation’s Top Shooting Guard Entering Year

Sports Illustrated‘s Kevin Sweeney released his top 10 shooting guards in college basketball heading into the 2026-27 season, and Blackwell was ranked at No. 1. Safe to say there will be some pretty lofty expectations on the former Badger as he aims to help Duke etch its sixth National Championship in program history.

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Blackwell was fantastic as a junior with Wisconsin in 2025-26, establishing himself as one of the top scoring guards in the sport. The 6’5″ guard averaged over 19 points per game to go along with 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals a night on 43.0% shooting from the field and 38.9% shooting from three-point range on 7.3 attempts.

Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Blackwell went for over 20 points in 15 outings last season before the NCAA Tournament and over 30 points in five, including a…

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Publish date : 2026-08-12 14:46:00

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