John Tonje's selection as the 53rd overall pick by the Utah Jazz in the 2025 NBA draft illustrates a significant shift in NBA team strategies influenced by the recent collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The new CBA introduced the second apron, designed to restrict teams from overspending and curtail the formation of superteams like the Golden State Warriors.

This restriction has led NBA franchises to prioritize the acquisition of cost-effective talent, particularly collegiate players such as Tonje. With many teams facing the risk of exceeding the second apron, they find themselves needing low-risk, high-reward options to fill roster gaps. This trend is likely to benefit college programs like the Wisconsin Badgers, which historically produce upperclassmen who are now more likely to be drafted.

Wisconsin center Nolan Winter has emerged as a notable name in ESPN's early 2026 NBA mock draft, projected to be selected 53rd overall. After averaging 9.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in his first season as a full-time starter, Winter is poised to take on a more significant role following key player departures. His shooting statistics, including a remarkable 71.5% success rate inside the arc, indicate his potential for growth, especially with high-profile games against competitive programs ahead.

Winter’s former teammate, John Tonje, was also drafted at the same position in the 2025 draft, demonstrating a potential trend for Badgers players. Although Winter did not enter the 2025 draft, his evolving skills suggest a bright future, whether in the NBA or overseas. His upcoming junior season will be crucial for his draft stock, particularly given the challenging Big Ten slate and significant matchups against Villanova and Marquette.

The 2025 NBA Draft showcased a record-breaking performance from the Big Ten, with ten players being chosen. The Rutgers Scarlet Knights took center stage as Dylan Harper was selected second overall by the San Antonio Spurs. Harper, with impressive stats averaging 19.4 points per game, was followed by teammate Ace Bailey, who went fifth to the Utah Jazz. The conference's depth continued with Derik Queen from Maryland being a sought-after pick by the New Orleans Pelicans.

Notably, the Miami Heat drafted Illinois' Kasparas Jakučionis at No. 20, while Michigan State's Jase Richardson rounded out the first round at No. 25, demonstrating the Big Ten’s strong presence. The second round saw Brooks Barnizer and John Tonje make their mark, with Tonje representing the Wisconsin Badgers as a significant pick for the Jazz.

Steven Crowl, the former Wisconsin basketball center, has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Utah Jazz post-NBA draft. This agreement allows him to participate in the NBA Summer League, where he aims to showcase his skills and potentially secure a two-way or G League contract. Crowl had a solid college career, averaging 9.7 points and 5.6 rebounds over five seasons at Wisconsin, and will now join fellow Badger John Tonje on the Jazz's summer league roster.

Despite not receiving invitations to the NBA combine or G League Elite Camp, Crowl demonstrated his abilities through workouts with several NBA teams, including the Golden State Warriors and New Orleans Pelicans. During his senior season, Crowl reached peak performance with averages of 9.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and a 54% field goal shooting percentage. His performance will be closely watched as he seeks to transition into a professional career.

Wisconsin star John Tonje was selected by the Utah Jazz as the 53rd overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the first Badger drafted since Johnny Davis in 2022. In his senior season, Tonje showcased impressive stats, averaging 19.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, while exhibiting remarkable shooting efficiency with a 46.5% field goal percentage and hitting 39% from behind the arc. His performance nearly led him to break the school’s single-season scoring record, had the Badgers advanced past BYU in the NCAA Tournament.

Joining Tonje in the Jazz's draft class are Ace Bailey from Rutgers and Florida's Walter Clayton Jr. The Jazz, who are seeking to bounce back from a dismal 17-65 season, hope Tonje’s addition will contribute to their rebuilding efforts. He is expected to participate in the NBA Summer League this July, where he will aim to solidify his place in the league despite facing the challenge of proving his capabilities at this level.