Wisconsin's John Blackwell was on the Milwaukee Bucks' workout list ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. However, the two guard took to social media to declare that he will return to the Badgers for another season rather than fully commit to the NBA Draft. While it would have been an interesting storyline, that's ultimately a wise decision for the young guard and his future as a basketball player.
John Blackwell needs another year in school, not with the Bucks
Although he just wrapped up an impressive sophomore season, averaging 15.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, Blackwell is still raw. At just 20 years old, he has room to grow, and returning to school for another year can help him do so, especially with fellow Badger John Tonje likely to find a home in the NBA. Blackwell could take on more basketball responsibility, furthering his development.
Had he stayed in the draft pool, Blackwell was almost inevitably going to go undrafted, leading to him likely starting his career in the G League or overseas. These days, returning to college, especially with all of the NIL deals, is certainly not a bad idea for prospects. Now, he can go back to school and aim to further improve his stock ahead of next year's draft while still making money.
Again, he's a nice player, but Blackwell isn't what the Milwaukee Bucks need in this particular draft. They should be in search of experienced collegiate players who can help immediately. That explains why Blackwell is the lone sophomore they've worked out, with everyone else being seniors outside of Darrion Williams, who is a junior. They are clearly eyeing experience, and rightfully so.
Even with Blackwell off the board, the Milwaukee Bucks are keeping tabs on several shooting guards leading up to the NBA Draft. Wake Forest's Hunter Sallis, Oregon's TJ Bamba, and William & Mary's Gabe Dorsey are all players they are working out. Unsurprisingly, they are all seniors, offering the Bucks more experienced options in their quest to add more win-now players.
If they really like him, perhaps the Milwaukee Bucks could circle back and take a closer look at the two guard around this time next year. Perhaps another year in Wisconsin could help John Blackwell have a breakout like his soon-to-be drafted teammate John Tonje, who is someone the Milwaukee Bucks should have eyes on currently.
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