Johnson proves to be a game-changer
Nov. 19, 2009
Zach Barnett, Texas Media Relations With the arrival of a highly-regarded recruiting class and the return of high-profile seniors Damion James and Dexter Pittman, there is a buzz in air surrounding the 2009-10 Texas Basketball team. One name on the roster that many have simply lost in the shuffle of talented players is junior forward Gary Johnson. After nearly doubling his scoring average from his freshman to sophomore seasons, Johnson figured to see an increased role heading into his junior year. But with a frontcourt that may feature as many as seven talented players, competition for playing time is an everyday battle. Instead of focusing on the possibility of decreased minutes and shots, Johnson is focused on only one thing, winning. “I’m comfortable with guys like Dexter (Pittman) and Damion (James) getting most of the looks. You play off them and that’s what I’m trying to learn to do. I feel like we’re going to win as long as guys don’t get out of what they do.” Through preseason camp and the opening of the season, Johnson’s teammates have noticed the Houston native embrace his new role. Two games into the year, Johnson appears to have transitioned to his new role well. During Wednesday night’s 73-41 home win against Western Carolina, Johnson scored 10 points on 4-of-4 shooting while adding seven rebounds and one blocked shot in 19 minutes. “He’s adjusted well,” said senior guard Justin Mason. “In the past, he’s played coming off the bench and he’s started some games as well, so I think he’s okay either way it goes.” No matter the minutes Johnson plays, Mason recognizes the value Johnson brings to the team any time he is on the floor.
“The way we like to play ball-screens, his ability to defend the post and guards really helps us defensively,” Mason explained. More important, Johnson’s head coach believes the junior forward is learning a new role for this team. “Gary rebounded, played hard and did some really good things tonight,” Texas coach Rick Barnes said after the game. “I told him I wanted him to change the game when he came in, and that’s what he did tonight.” |
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