Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell’s decision to transfer has been one of the most high-profile recruitments in the last week, with some of the country’s finest institutions attempting to recruit the superstar.
Since announcing his intentions to join the transfer portal, multiple institutions have been associated with Blackwell. On Friday, Blackwell’s representatives, Todd Ramasar and Alexis Liatsos of Life Sports, informed ESPN’s Jonathan Givony of the top six schools in his recruitment: Alabama, Illinois, Arizona, Duke, Louisville, and UCLA.
Givony says Blackwell will reveal his decision on May 4th, a week before the NBA Draft Combine.
Over the last week, the two schools that have gained traction for Blackwell are Illinois and Duke, with a smooth transition to both programs for the Badgers standout.
Blackwell is seeking for more on-ball prospects to come with what should be a sizable financial agreement next season, and both of those institutions offer that chance for him.
For me, the Duke is the greatest option for Blackwell. He’d play a hybrid guard role alongside returners Caleb Foster and Cayden Boozer (assuming both remain), and he’d take over Isaiah Evans’ position, but on a larger scale as Duke’s expected leading scorer.
The Fighting Illini, on the other hand, are looking at Providence point guard Stefan Vaaks, who may be a complement to Blackwell if both choose to go to Illinois. That would also give Blackwell more on-ball chances, allowing him to compete in 2026.
Regardless, Blackwell appears to be in no haste to make a selection, and he should attract some serious suitors this summer.
