Tonje’s debut emerges as a promising replacement for Wisconsin

Missouri transfer John Tonje made a statement in his debut with the Wisconsin Badgers, leading them to an 85-61 victory over Holy Cross on Monday night. 

The sixth-year senior poured in 23 points, shooting 3-of-6 from three-point range and a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line. He also added five rebounds, one assist and one steal — all in just 27 minutes of play.

Tonje’s 23-point performance is the most points scored in a debut by a Badger since at least 2000. While having five previous years of college-level experience gives him an advantage over incoming freshman, his standout performance still marks as one of the most impressive debuts in recent history. His 23-point showing outpaced the opening-game efforts of other recent transfers, including most recently AJ Storr’s 15 points last season against Arkansas State.

Tonje all-around offensive game provides an immediate life for Wisconsin, especially as the team looks to replace the scoring production of Storr, who averaged a team-leading 16.8 points per game last season before transferring to Kansas in the offseason. 

A versatile threat, Tonje can drive to the basket, finish with dunks, shoot efficiently from the free-throw line and stretch the floor with his three-point shooting — making him a difficult matchup for opposing teams.