Duke lands Wisconsin transfer John Blackwell, cementing likely top-5 team entering season
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Former Wisconsin guard John Blackwell, ranked No. 3 in The Athletic’s transfer rankings, has committed to Duke, becoming the top transfer acquisition under head coach Jon Scheyer.
- Blackwell averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season, earning All-Big Ten third-team honors and is expected to immediately start for Duke’s anticipated top-five team next season.
- His strong 3-point shooting (38.9% overall, 44.2% catch-and-shoot) and veteran NCAA Tournament experience align with Duke’s strategy to add experienced players alongside their elite freshman recruits.
- Duke is also retaining key players like point guard Cayden Boozer and center Patrick Ngongba II, focusing on a more experienced roster after recent NCAA Tournament lessons.
- Blackwell’s scoring, free-throw accuracy (86.3%), and ability to draw fouls enhance Duke’s national championship prospects, complementing a highly ranked incoming freshman class.
