John Blackwell’s agent confirms top list of schools, commitment date

Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images | Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images

Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell’s transfer decision has been one of the most high-profile recruitments over the past week, as the star is being courted by some of the top schools in the country.

Since his announcement to enter the transfer portal, there have been several schools linked to Blackwell. On Friday, Blackwell’s agents, Todd Ramasar and Alexis Liatsos of Life Sports, told ESPN’s Jonathan Givony of the top six schools in the recruitment: Alabama, Illinois, Arizona, Duke, Louisville, and UCLA.

Blackwell will also announce his decision on May 4th, a week before the NBA Draft Combine, per Givony.

Over the past week, the two schools that have really been getting traction for Blackwell are Illinois and Duke, with the fit with both programs being seamless for the Badgers star.

Blackwell is looking for more on-ball opportunities to come with what should be a significant financial package next season, and both of those schools provide that opportunity for him.

For me, I see the Duke fit as the best of the bunch for Blackwell. He’d be in a combo guard role alongside returners Caleb Foster and Cayden Boozer (assuming they both stay), and would take over the Isaiah Evans role, but in a bigger capacity as Duke’s projected top scorer.

As for Illinois, the Fighting Illini are looking at Providence point guard Stefan Vaaks, who could be a complement for Blackwell should the two both head there. That would also provide Blackwell with more on-ball opportunities, and give him an opportunity to compete in 2026.

Regardless, it seems Blackwell is in no rush to make a decision, and should have some big suitors this offseason.