When John Tonje of Wisconsin basketball returns to Colorado, he pulls for his old team in the NCAA tournament, feeling nostalgic

When John Tonje, the transfer guard for the Wisconsin Badgers, found himself in the throes of the NCAA Tournament, he couldn’t help but feel nostalgic for his time at Colorado State University. Tonje, who transferred to Wisconsin after spending several years with the Colorado State Rams, spoke openly about the mix of emotions he experienced as he prepared for the tournament. While his commitment to the Badgers was strong, his roots in Colorado were undeniable, and the prospect of facing his former team’s fans and program in a highly competitive tournament setting made for a whirlwind of feelings.

Tonje had been a key contributor to Colorado State’s rise in the Mountain West Conference before deciding to make the transition to the Badgers. His leadership on and off the court, combined with his scoring ability, made him an important piece for Wisconsin’s program. But as the NCAA Tournament approached, it was clear that his connection to his former team and his role in their success was still an emotional part of his identity as a player.

A Player’s Journey: From Colorado State to Wisconsin

For Tonje, his decision to leave Colorado State wasn’t taken lightly. After an accomplished career in Fort Collins, he had established himself as one of the Mountain West Conference‘s top players. His scoring ability, leadership, and defensive presence made him a vital part of the Rams’ lineup. His choice to transfer to Wisconsin was motivated by the opportunity to play at an elite basketball program in the Big Ten, which offered a new set of challenges and opportunities to elevate his game on a larger stage.

“I loved my time at Colorado State. It shaped me as a player and a person,” Tonje said in a post-game interview. “But when the chance to play for a program like Wisconsin came up, I knew it was something I couldn’t pass up. I’m excited about the future, but that doesn’t mean I don’t carry Colorado with me.”

It was clear that his time in Colorado was not just about basketball; it was about developing a sense of family and creating lasting bonds. Tonje spent a significant portion of his college career in Fort Collins, and that experience shaped who he was as both a player and a person. The strong connections he had made with coaches, teammates, and the community were something he would carry with him when he left, and they became part of his larger basketball narrative.

In Wisconsin, Tonje immediately made an impact. He quickly became a key figure for the Badgers, known for his scoring, leadership, and ability to play both ends of the floor. His transition from Colorado State to Wisconsin had its challenges, but Tonje took them in stride, leaning on his experiences at Colorado State to help him adapt to the Wisconsin style of play.

However, despite his focus on his new journey with Wisconsin, it was impossible for Tonje to completely sever his emotional ties to his former team and school. With the NCAA Tournament fast approaching, Tonje found himself once again thinking about the program that had helped him grow as a player and a leader.

The Emotional Connection to Colorado State

As the NCAA Tournament unfolded, Tonje found himself watching with great interest as Colorado State made its own push. Despite the fact that he no longer played for the Rams, his heart was still tethered to the program. Colorado State had been an integral part of his story, and his connection to his former teammates, coaches, and fans remained strong.

“It’s kind of crazy to think about,” Tonje admitted. “I’ve moved on to Wisconsin, and this is where I’m focused now, but I still feel connected to Colorado. I care about how they do in the tournament. They were a big part of my journey.”

When Wisconsin’s first-round game in the NCAA Tournament came up against a tough opponent, Tonje was fully invested in his new team’s success. Yet, at the same time, he couldn’t help but pull for his old team, who had earned their place in the tournament as well. The nostalgia he felt for his time at Colorado State wasn’t just about basketball; it was about the community, the friendships, and the experiences that had shaped him both on and off the court.

“I talk to my old teammates from Colorado State every chance I get,” Tonje said. “We still have a brotherhood, and it’s one of those things where even though we’re all at different schools now, we support each other no matter what. I’m proud of everything we accomplished together.”

Tonje’s bond with his former team wasn’t just about the games they played but the collective effort they put in to get better, day in and day out. The late-night practices, the long bus rides, and the moments of celebration and defeat had all forged a connection that he knew would last far beyond his time in Colorado. His pride in what the Rams had accomplished during his tenure with the team remained, and it would forever be part of his basketball identity.

A New Chapter in the NCAA Tournament

As the NCAA Tournament progressed, Wisconsin found itself facing a tough road to the Final Four. With players like Tyler Wahl, Steven Crowl, and Chucky Hepburn all stepping up in key moments, the Badgers’ balanced approach had the potential to carry them far. But Tonje’s experience in high-pressure tournament games from his days at Colorado State gave him an edge in this environment, where every game could make or break a team’s chances.

At the same time, Tonje’s emotional connection to Colorado State had him closely watching their tournament run, too. As he prepared for his own games with Wisconsin, he cheered on his former teammates and watched as Colorado State fought to advance in the tournament. It was a bittersweet experience for Tonje — on one hand, he was completely committed to Wisconsin and its success, but on the other hand, his loyalty to Colorado State ran deep.

“It’s a tough feeling to explain,” Tonje shared. “I want to see Wisconsin do well. But at the same time, I still want to see Colorado State succeed. It’s not a rivalry for me; it’s more of a pride thing. I want the program that helped me grow to do well too.”

Tonje’s relationship with his old team demonstrated a unique blend of loyalty, respect, and nostalgia. It wasn’t about choosing one side over the other but rather honoring his past while embracing his present and future. This balancing act was one that many transfer players face — leaving behind a piece of themselves to start anew, but always carrying the lessons learned and the relationships formed along the way.

John Tonje’s Impact on Wisconsin

Since transferring to Wisconsin, Tonje’s impact on the court has been significant. The Badgers have benefited from his versatility, leadership, and scoring ability. Tonje’s ability to play both the shooting guard and small forward positions gives Wisconsin added depth and flexibility in their lineup, and his experience in the NCAA Tournament with Colorado State has been invaluable as he helps guide Wisconsin through the pressure-packed moments of March Madness.

Wisconsin fans have embraced Tonje with open arms, and he’s quickly become a fan favorite in Madison. While it’s clear that he has found a new home with the Badgers, his connection to Colorado remains strong. His ability to transfer that passion for the game to his new teammates speaks to his maturity and understanding of what it means to be a leader.

After each game, Tonje often reflects on his journey and how his time at Colorado State shaped him as a player. The challenges, the growth, and the unforgettable moments will always be a part of him, and he carries those memories with pride.

“I wouldn’t be the player I am today without the experiences I had at Colorado State,” Tonje stated. “The time I spent there helped me become more than just a basketball player. It made me who I am. So, as much as I’m focused on Wisconsin now, I’ll always be a part of that program.”

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next for Tonje and the Badgers?

As Wisconsin pushes forward in the NCAA Tournament, Tonje remains a crucial piece of their quest for March Madness glory. His experience, leadership, and ability to impact the game in various ways have made him an indispensable part of the Badgers’ rotation. With each game, he proves that his time at Colorado State was a stepping stone to something greater, and now he’s determined to help Wisconsin achieve their championship aspirations.

Tonje’s journey — from Colorado State to Wisconsin — is one of growth, loyalty, and sacrifice. His connection to his former team may never fully fade, but his commitment to Wisconsin is clear. As he continues to compete in the NCAA Tournament, his pride in both his old and new teams will fuel his drive to succeed, and he’ll continue to support both programs with the same passion and dedication he’s shown throughout his career. The road ahead may be filled with challenges, but John Tonje is prepared to face them, knowing that every moment of his journey, from Colorado to Wisconsin, has shaped him into the player and leader he is today.