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2026 NBA Draft: John Blackwell Scouting Report

John Blackwell of the Wisconsin Badgers dribbles the ball during a college basketball game.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2026 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.


John Blackwell

Position: Guard

College: Wisconsin

Class: Junior

Height/Weight: 6'4", 203 lbs

Birthdate: December 25, 2004

High School: Brother Rice HS (MI)


Player Overview


John Blackwell, a 6'4" guard, brings toughness, confidence, and scoring versatility to the backcourt. A proven three-level scorer with a strong frame and competitive approach, Blackwell has established himself as a high-usage offensive threat capable of creating shots from a variety of actions. His assertiveness, ability to get downhill, and knack for drawing fouls make him a constant pressure point for opposing defenses.


"Blackwell is a talented, aggressive scorer who keeps defenses on their heels. He's definitely a prospect to keep tracking." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst

Strengths


  • Three-Level Scoring: Blackwell is an experienced scorer with the confidence to attack in a variety of ways. He gets to his spots, plays through contact, and can score in bunches.

  • Advanced On-Ball Toolbox: Uses a wide range of dribble moves, including probes, hangs, spins, and behind-the-back counters, to manipulate defenders. Comfortable attacking either direction and operating from the elbows.

  • Shot Creation: Generates his own looks consistently, particularly from mid-range and deep. Makes difficult shots over size and welcomes physicality.

  • Rebounding from the Guard Spot: Highly active on the glass. Tracks long rebounds, crashes offensively, and produces put-backs with effort and timing.


Concerns


  • Decision-Making & Pace Control: Can get sped up, leading to unnecessary dribbles, difficult shot attempts, or preventable turnovers. Becoming more selective and controlled will elevate his efficiency.

  • Finishing Versatility: Relies heavily on his dominant hand and can struggle against length at the rim. Improving his off-hand finishing and counters will help him as defenses tighten.

  • Defensive Discipline: Has the tools and effort but can lose positioning or awareness. Cleaning up footwork and consistency will strengthen his effectiveness.


Bottom Line


Blackwell is a confident and assertive scoring guard with a deep offensive bag and the mindset to impact a game. His ability to generate offense, make tough shots, and play with physicality stands out right away. Continued refinement in decision-making, defensive discipline, and efficiency will determine how high his trajectory goes, but he has put himself firmly on the radar as a prospect.

 
 
Preciser
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