Wisconsin’s John Tonje Shines in Historic Victory Over No. 9 Arizona
MADISON, Wis. – In a stunning display of skill, Wisconsin’s John Tonje scored 41 points in the Badgers’ impressive 103-88 victory over No. 9 Arizona, bringing new excitement to Wisconsin basketball. The former Colorado State and Missouri guard fell just two points shy of the school’s single-game scoring record during the matchup, showcasing his scoring prowess from the field and the free-throw line.
Tonje’s remarkable performance included making 21 of 22 free throws, setting a school record. His ability to perform under pressure was crucial in a game marred by fouls, with a staggering 63 fouls called, resulting in a total of 87 free throw attempts from both teams. This victory marks Wisconsin’s first triple-digit scoring game against a ranked opponent since 1970 and highlights Tonje’s potential to compensate for the loss of key players like AJ Storr and Chucky Hepburn from last season.
Wisconsin head coach Greg Gard praised Tonje’s maturity and eagerness to learn, noting his attentiveness in practice and ability to adapt quickly. Tonje’s solid shooting percentages—averaging 55.8% from the field this season—further solidify his role on the team.
Reflecting on his journey, Tonje shared that a foot injury that sidelined him for most of last season at Missouri offered him valuable time for self-reflection and growth. As he embraces his new role at Wisconsin, he expressed his excitement about contributing to moments like the energetic court storming that followed Friday night’s victory.
This significant win emphasizes both Tonje’s individual talent and the potential for the Badgers this season, as they aim to build on their early success.
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