The fast-approaching 2025 NBA draft carries a lot of intrigue for Wisconsin Badgers fans.
Much of that intrigue surrounds the draft stock of star wing John Tonje. The All-American is fresh off a dominant 2024-25 season that included per-game averages of 19.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists, plus shooting rates of 46.5% from the field, 39% from 3 and 91% from the free-throw line. Although that top-end production should generate significant NBA interest, he’s an older draft prospect at 24 and may have already reached his offensive ceiling.
Tonje is a near guarantee to be selected during the draft’s first two rounds. The questions are, how early, and by which team?
Tonje’s draft position aside, Wisconsin basketball fans aren’t restricted to following the college level. High school basketball in the state has reached new heights over the past few years, with several notable in-state products excelling in the NBA. Indiana Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton’s breakout run to the NBA Finals headlines that list.
Another notable player is poised to join Haliburton and other Wisconsin natives during this week’s draft. In addition, several others are projected as undrafted free agents. Here are those players, plus where they stand in CBSSports’ latest top-100 player ranking:
Which Wisconsin natives are in position to be selected during the 2025 NBA draft?
Duke guard Kon Knueppel
UCLA guard Kobe Johnson
Memphis guard Tyrese Hunter
Knueppel is the one Wisconsin native likely to hear his name called during the draft. He’s a projected top-10 pick after a standout true freshman season at Duke. Both Johnson and Hunter are ranked about 30 spots too low to threaten the draft’s 59 picks. Therefore, both will likely look for an NBA Summer League or G League opportunity to showcase their talents and earn a full-time roster spot.
That trio of Wisconsin natives will look to join a group in the NBA that currently includes Patrick Baldwin Jr., Johnny Davis, Tyler Herro, Tyrese Haliburton, Sam Hauser, Jalen Johnson, Kevon Looney, Jordan Poole, and others. Don’t be surprised if Knueppel is a household name sooner rather than later.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Which Wisconsin natives are in a position to be selected during the 2025 NBA draft?
Reporting by Ben Kenney, Badgers Wire / Badgers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
