John Blackwell 'getting more comfortable' in new role for Wisconsin basketball
Wisconsin Badgers combo guard John Blackwell has taken on a lot more responsibility this season, and it's starting to click at the right time.
When Chucky Hepburn, the Wisconsin Badgers multi-year starting point guard, unexpectedly entered the transfer portal during the offseason, it sent shockwaves through the basketball program. His departure not only altered the entire makeup of the roster, which Greg Gard would need to address, but it also left a significant void in the starting five.
Offseason transfer addition Camren Hunter from Arkansas State seemed like the logical choice to step in and fill Hepburn's shoes, or perhaps incoming freshman Daniel Freitag, the highest-rated point guard signee of the Gard era, would seize the opportunity. Even a veteran option like Kamari McGee appeared to have a legitimate shot at earning the job in camp.
But instead of leaning on a 'true point guard,' coach Gard made a bold decision to go without one for the first time in his tenure.
Sophomore combo guard John Blackwell has since risen to the occasion, stepping into the primary ball-handler role for Wisconsin.
After earning All-Big Ten Freshman honors as a wing during the 2023-24 season, Blackwell has embraced the challenge of transitioning into a position that demands leadership and sound decision-making as a lead guard. His growth has added a new dynamic to the Badgers' high-powered offense, making him a key piece in their revamped backcourt.
The 6-foot-4 Michigan native is averaging 14.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game on 48.1% shooting from the field through the team's first 13 games.
While his three-point percentage has dropped to 28.9% from an impressive 44.1% as an off-ball guard last year, Blackwell's improved finishing around the rim has offset the dip in long-range efficiency. This season, he’s converting 57.8% of his attempts at the rim compared to 44.1% a year ago, showing his development as an interior scorer.
Blackwell’s expanded role is reflected in several metrics. His usage rate has increased from 20.6% to 23.3%, and his assist percentage has more than doubled, jumping from 6.4% to 14.9%. His PRPG has risen to 3.2, the third highest on the team behind only Nolan Winter and John Tonje. With his minutes climbing from 18.5 per game as a freshman to 30.0 per game this year, Blackwell has adapted well to the added responsibilities.
"What stands out about his game is the fact that he can literally do everything,” former Badgers guard Jordan Taylor said of Blackwell. “His ability to get in the paint and create for other guys and be the paint touch guy while finishing and creating, I don't think people understand how hard that is to do.
“I think he's an incredible player, and as he continues to improve, I think he's got pro potential as he continues to improve his athleticism. He’s an absolute stud and has a lot going for him moving forward.”
So far, Blackwell has reached double figures as a scorer in 11 of their 13 games. And while his 29-to-25 assist-to-turnover ratio on the season isn’t anything to write home about, Blackwell has shown signs of progress as of late, tallying 10 assists without a single turnover in the past two games.
"I think he's getting more comfortable at being a distributor and more complete in his game beyond just being a scorer," Gard told reporters.
"He's got to continue to do all those other things he did last year that got him on the floor. His role has grown and changed, but don't lose sight of what got you on the floor early, and that was defending, rebounding, just being really, really solid. I think he can be even a better defender than what he is, but he's got a lot on his plate in terms of what we've asked of him.”
One area where Blackwell has seen a slight dip, however, is on the defensive glass. After posting a 17.2% defensive rebound rate as a true freshman, that number has dropped to 12.5% this season.
Gard also stressed the importance of Blackwell refining his shot selection and maximizing the middle part of the floor.
"The analytics of not taking as many mid-range shots, getting yourself deeper in the paint, you're going to have more kick out threes,” said Gard. “You're going to have more drops to the floor to bigs or lobs at the rim. And then you're going to your finish rate yourself is going to go up… it’s going to help all parts of your game. And I think John’s a recipient of that at times."
As Blackwell continues to settle into this new position, his evolution into a more well-rounded guard has been a central storyline for the Badgers as they continue working toward reaching their ceiling as a team.
His ability to strike the right balance between scoring and facilitating, as well as his defensive responsibilities, will be crucial as Wisconsin prepares to navigate a deep Big Ten conference and push for an NCAA tournament bid.
League play resumes on Friday, Jan. 3, when the Wisconsin Badgers (10-3) host Iowa (10-3) at the Kohl Center.
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I think the distinction is kind of meaningless. Bronson Koenig averaged 10 pts 2 rbd and 2 assists over his career and would probably be classified as a point guard. Blackwell is currently averaging more points assists and rebounds. So I guess I’d prefer a combo guard to a point guard.
Really don’t like JB at this position. He does not fit there with others more suited. He has struggle in my opinion.