Wisconsin transfer John Blackwell commits to Duke

TL;DR

John Blackwell, a guard from Wisconsin, has committed to Duke, enhancing their roster for the 2026-27 season. This move comes as Duke expects to lose key players to the NBA Draft.

Key points

John Blackwell commits to Duke from Wisconsin
Averages 19.1 points per game at Wisconsin
Duke expects to lose key players to the NBA Draft

John BlackwellDukeWisconsinNCAA Tournament

John Blackwell while on his Duke visit

Duke has made a splash in the transfer portal. The Blue Devils have landed the commitment of Wisconsin transfer guard John Blackwell, On3 has learned.

The pickup of Blackwell comes as a massive boost to Duke’s scoring for the 2026-27 season, as it is losing some major production. The Blue Devils’ two leading scorers — Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Evans — are expected to declare for the NBA Draft and become pros. Enter Blackwell.

Blackwell is coming off his best season statistically for the Badgers. He averaged 19.1 points per game on 44.1% shooting, including 37.5% shooting from beyond the arc. Blackwell hit 30+ points five times for Wisconsin this year on the team’s way to a No. 5 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Blackwell has been considered one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal since announcing plans to enter on April 6. He had heavy interest from the likes of UCLA, Illinois and in the recruiting process, but in the end, it was Duke that won out for his services.

Q&A

What impact will John Blackwell have on Duke's basketball team?

John Blackwell is expected to significantly boost Duke's scoring after averaging 19.1 points per game at Wisconsin.

Why did John Blackwell transfer from Wisconsin to Duke?

Blackwell transferred to Duke to join a program that is losing key players and to enhance his chances of competing at a high level.

Who are the key players leaving Duke for the NBA Draft?

Duke's two leading scorers, Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Evans, are expected to declare for the NBA Draft.