On Wednesday night at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, the Atlanta Hawks faced off against the Milwaukee Bucks, creating a special moment for Jalen Johnson, an NBA All-Star forward originally from Wisconsin. Johnson, 24, grew up in Wausau and spent two years playing high school basketball at Sun Prairie High School in Sun Prairie, making the game feel like a homecoming.
Before the matchup, Johnson expressed his strong wish for greater recognition of Wisconsin basketball, arguing that the state’s considerable talent is often overlooked despite producing numerous skilled players.
Most importantly, I just want to show everybody in the world that Wisconsin is on the map for basketball,
Johnson shared, emphasizing the pride he feels representing his home state’s talent (h/t Scott Grodsky of CBS 58 Sports).
A lot of times, at least growing up, I felt like Wisconsin was always overlooked as far as talent-wise. I always felt like we were one of the states that were always very underrated. Just for me to continue to put us on the map and along with the other guys in the NBA as well, I feel like we’re doing a good job and we continue to wear that badge of honor.
Johnson’s Path to the NBA and Performance Against Milwaukee
Johnson’s basketball journey included a collegiate career at Duke University, though he had offers from notable programs such as the Wisconsin Badgers, Arizona Wildcats, and Kentucky Wildcats. He entered the NBA in the 2021 draft, being selected 20th overall by the Atlanta Hawks.
In the recent clash with the Bucks, Johnson played a key role in Atlanta’s 131-113 victory, contributing 20 points on 7-of-17 shooting, along with nine assists and five rebounds across 34 minutes. His performance demonstrated his growth and continued commitment to showcasing Wisconsin’s basketball prowess on a national stage.
The Growing Influence of Wisconsin Natives in the NBA
Johnson is part of a growing group of Wisconsin-born NBA players like Tyler Herro and Tyrese Haliburton who proudly represent their state at the highest level. Together, they challenge perceptions and strive to bring more attention to the basketball talent emerging from Wisconsin.
I just want to show everybody in the world that Wisconsin is on the map for basketball.
Players like Johnson and his peers wear the “Wisconsin native” label with pride, symbolizing their collective effort to elevate the state’s basketball reputation beyond what many had known or expected.
Looking Forward: Wisconsin Basketball’s Rising Profile
As Johnson and other Wisconsin players continue to succeed in the NBA, the impact on the state’s basketball profile grows stronger. Their efforts highlight the need for wider recognition of Wisconsin as a breeding ground for high-level basketball talent. With Johnson leading by example, the future looks promising for the state’s athletes who aspire to reach the professional ranks.
Fans and followers interested in Wisconsin sports can stay updated with ongoing coverage and analysis from local experts dedicated to celebrating Wisconsin’s athletic achievements.
"I just want to show everybody in the world that Wisconsin is on the map for basketball."
NBA All-Star Jalen Johnson felt Wisconsin talent was overlooked growing up and players like himself, Tyler Herro, Tyrese Haliburton wear the title "Wisconsin native" like a badge of honor. pic.twitter.com/ma5KmQHNUI
— Scott Grodsky (@ScottGrodsky) March 4, 2026
