SAN ANTONIO — When Keldon Johnson first encountered new teammate Chris Paul this summer at the San Antonio Spurs’ Victory Capital Performance Center, he knew he shared a pair of significant traits with the 39-year-old so-called Point God: ownership of Olympic gold medals and entire careers spent wearing uniform No. 3.
Their golden connection was something to savor.
The identical numerical needed a haggle.
Paul has worn No. 3 in 19 previous NBA seasons, known by hoops junkies worldwide by his nickname: CP3.
Johnson chose to wear No. 3 when he began playing organized basketball in middle school, in large part because he so admired Paul’s play in the NBA and saw a role model in him. He wore the number through high school and in his one season at the University of Kentucky before the Spurs made him the 29th selection of the 2019 NBA Draft.
Johnson had some fleeting reluctance to yield No. 3 after he learned Paul had signed with the Spurs on July 7, but his misgivings melted quickly. He and Paul talked out things, and Johnson announced he would relinquish No. 3 so Paul could continue being CP3.
“It was all good,” Paul said with a bit of a grin. He denied any hard bargaining, which sometimes happens in such situations and requires the “new” player to fork over a bit of cash. “We figured it out.”
Added Johnson: “I wouldn’t necessarily say (I) put up a fight. Nah, we had some conversations and it is the ultimate sign of respect. Since Day 1, Chris has been nothing but amazing for not just me but my teammates and the whole organization.”
Johnson had worn No. 0 on several assignments to the G League’s Austin Spurs during his rookie season and has decided that will be his number this season.
Consider Johnson’s selfless act another example of his willingness to be a team player, a virtue he already had proven to Spurs coach Gregg Popovich through his first five seasons in San Antonio and as a bench player on the 2020 U.S. Olympic team for which Popovich was head coach.
Johnson is entering his sixth season and is the team’s longest-tenured active player. He calls the distinction “definitely an honor and a blessing to be part of an organization like this for such a long period of time, to be able to stick around and thrive.”
Johnson excelled as a starter, beginning with his second season in 2020-21. He started 67 of the 69 games in that COVID-19-shortened season. His scoring average increased, and by his fourth season, in 2022-23, he was the team’s top scorer, averaging 22.0 points per game.
But things changed last season, the Spurs’ first with burgeoning superstar Victor Wembanyama on the roster. Johnson started the first 27 games and made some big plays. On Halloween in Phoenix, he stole the ball from Kevin Durant with 3 seconds left in a one-point game and scored a layup, giving the Spurs a 115-114 victory over a team that had been a preseason favorite to contend for the Western Conference title.
It was a win that put San Antonio at 2-2, and when the Spurs followed with another win over the Suns just two nights later, they were a surprising 3-2.
Hopelessly unrealistic fans in San Antonio wondered if a playoff berth was in the offing.
Instead, what followed was the longest losing streak in franchise history, 18 straight defeats.
As they got to game 27 with a record of 4-23, Popovich shuffled his lineup. He ended his self-professed experiment using power forward Jeremy Sochan as a point guard. The veteran coach asked Johnson to become the team’s sixth man. Fourth-year swingman Julian Champagnie started every game for the remainder of the season, and Tre Jones became the starter at point.
Johnson remained the sixth man. A foot sprain kept him out of eight of the final 10 games, and by season’s end he had seen his playing time drop, from 32.7 minutes to 29.5; his scoring average dipped from 22.0 points to 15.7.
His response to such disappointment was a vow to be more prepared this season. He reported to training camp in the best condition of his life with significant weight loss despite added musculature.
Johnson looks positively skinny.
“He was spectacular coming in, really, really trim,” Popovich said. “I don’t know what his body fat was, but it’s the best he’s looked in a couple of years.”
How did he do it?
Learning what to eat, and when, was equally as impactful as giving up the many sweet things he had loved to snack on in the past.
“I feel like just being locked in on my diet and being serious about what I put into my body,” Johnson said. “Making it a lifestyle, not a diet. Not just something that is temporary for me. This is something I plan on making a lifestyle thing for me and my family, eating the right things and being in shape.
“You get the cravings for sweet things and stuff like that, but now I don’t think of those things because I have been so locked into basketball and so locked into putting myself in the right position to be successful. Not just me but my team. I feel like I owe it to my teammates to come in here and be in the best shape possible so I can help win some games.”
Wait, does that mean no more trips to Buc-ee’s, a popular Texas-based chain of gas stations/convenience stores?
Travelers are lured by low gas prices and an array of food and drink items, from salted cinnamon churro cashews to “beaver nuggets,” coconut pie cups and all manner of kolaches, Czech pastries that can be found at every store.
Johnson admits to having been a big fan, but no more.
“For sure, no Buc-ee’s,” he said. ”I’m locked in. You’ve got to make sacrifices. That’s what it’s always about. I enjoy my lifestyle that I have right now and the way I eat and carry myself as a professional.”
Those who have seen him all summer don’t doubt his dedication. They also have seen him poring over game films, examining dozens of hours of what he has done right and wrong in the past with a strong emphasis on defense, so he could understand the deficiencies in his past play.
“You stay in the gym,” Johnson said. “I feel like I am ready to defend. That has been my main thing this summer. You (media) guys will see that for yourselves, and you guys can tell me what you think. Defense has been a big part of my offseason.”
What role can Johnson expect to play this season after Paul and veteran forward Harrison Barnes joined the roster in July, not long after the Spurs made University of Connecticut combo guard Stephen Castle the No. 4 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft?
As impressed as Popovich was by Johnson’s conditioning, he isn’t likely to bring him back to the starting lineup. That’s no knock on Johnson but Popovich loves having an impactful sixth man. The 75-year-old veteran on the Spurs bench never hesitates to remind every reserve that Hall of Famer Manu Ginóbili played such a role for many of his 16 Spurs seasons and was named the 2007-08 NBA Sixth Man of the Year.
“We haven’t decided exactly what his role will be as we put the group together,” Popovich said on Johnson. “He has been very competitive, very focused, very purposeful.”
On Saturday, Johnson scored 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting in 23 minutes of a 126-120 preseason win over the Utah Jazz. He also added four rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block.
“He is a pretty aggressive individual and he is playing very confidently,” Popovich said.
But it won’t be a shock if Castle, not Johnson, opens the regular as the starter at shooting guard until Devin Vassell returns.
Vassell, a starter in 62 of the 68 games he played last season and the team’s No. 2 scorer (19.5 ppg.), had surgery on his right foot in the offseason to correct what has been described as a rare type of stress reaction. The hope is for him to return in early November.
Johnson insists he is excited about everything he has seen during the preseason. That included a monster dunk by Castle against the Orlando Magic last Wednesday that brought him leaping from his seat on the bench to lead an “OMG” response among his fellow bench teammates.
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A similar power throwdown by Johnson in the fourth quarter against the Jazz on Saturday elicited a reaction from Wembanyama that was nearly identical to an earlier one, as he jumped out of his seat.
Johnson is eager for the season to begin, even if he won’t be on the court for the opening tip-off in Dallas on Oct. 24. His strong belief in the Spurs’ potential to become a successful team drives his excitement.
“I feel great,” he expressed. “I’m excited for a new season. I believe we have the mindset and the talent to win.”
(Photo of Johnson: Michael Gonzales / NBAE via Getty Images)
From Gold Medals to Team Player: Keldon Johnson’s Journey and Transformation Ahead of the New NBA Season
Keldon Johnson: A Rising Star in the NBA
Keldon Johnson, a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts, has been making waves in the NBA since his debut. Known for his athleticism and competitive spirit, Johnson’s transition from a standout collegiate player to a professional athlete has been nothing short of remarkable. As the new NBA season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Johnson will adapt and grow within his team dynamics.
The Early Years: Foundations of a Champion
Born in the heart of Virginia, Keldon Johnson honed his basketball skills at a young age. His journey began in high school, where he quickly became a standout player. Johnson’s relentless work ethic and dedication to improvement laid the groundwork for his success. Here are some key highlights from his early career:
- High School Success: At Oak Hill Academy, Johnson led his team to numerous victories and earned All-American honors.
- College Glory: He played for the University of Kentucky, where he was a crucial player in their NCAA tournament run, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
- Gold Medal Achievement: Johnson’s hard work paid off when he represented Team USA in the FIBA U19 World Cup, clinching a gold medal and solidifying his status as a top prospect.
Transitioning to the NBA
After declaring for the NBA Draft, Keldon Johnson was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in 2019. His rookie season was filled with learning experiences, and he quickly adapted to the rigorous demands of professional basketball. Key aspects of his transition include:
- Rookie Year Highlights: Johnson averaged 6 points and 3 rebounds, proving to be a valuable asset off the bench.
- Growth Mindset: Embracing feedback from veterans such as DeMar DeRozan, Johnson worked diligently on his skills.
- Playoff Experience: His performance in the 2020 NBA Playoffs showcased his potential, as he contributed significantly to the Spurs’ efforts.
From Individual Star to Team Player
As Keldon Johnson enters the new NBA season, a significant aspect of his evolution is his transformation into a team player. Here’s how he has embraced this role:
Understanding Team Dynamics
Johnson has recognized the importance of teamwork in achieving success. By focusing on collective goals, he has shifted his mindset from individual accolades to team achievements. This transition is evident in several ways:
- Communication: Johnson has improved his on-court communication, ensuring that he is in sync with his teammates.
- Selflessness: Emphasizing assists and playmaking, he is learning to create opportunities for others rather than solely focusing on scoring.
- Leadership: As one of the younger players, he is stepping up to guide incoming rookies and foster a positive team environment.
Key Skills for Team Success
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Off-Ball Movement | Enhancing his ability to find open spaces and create shots for teammates. |
| Defensive Versatility | Improving defensive skills to effectively guard multiple positions. |
| Basketball IQ | Understanding game situations to make smarter plays. |
The Importance of Mental Resilience
As he prepares for the upcoming season, Keldon Johnson is focusing on mental resilience. The pressures of the NBA can be daunting, and maintaining a strong mindset is crucial for performance. Strategies he is implementing include:
- Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation aid in staying present and focused during games.
- Goal Setting: Setting realistic and measurable goals helps him track progress and maintain motivation.
- Reflective Journaling: Keeping a journal to reflect on performances enhances self-awareness and personal growth.
Case Study: Keldon Johnson’s Development During the Offseason
The offseason is a critical period for players like Keldon Johnson. Here’s a look at how he has utilized this time for growth:
- Personal Training: Collaborating with renowned trainers to work on specific skill sets, including shooting and agility.
- Team Practices: Participating in informal scrimmages with teammates to build chemistry.
- Nutrition and Fitness: Committing to a disciplined diet and fitness regimen to ensure peak physical condition.
Prospects for the New NBA Season
As the new NBA season approaches, the anticipation surrounding Keldon Johnson’s performance is palpable. Analysts are predicting several key outcomes:
- Increased Role: With the departure of seasoned players, Johnson is expected to take on a larger role within the Spurs’ offense.
- Statistical Growth: Analysts expect an increase in his scoring and assisting averages, reflecting his commitment to team play.
- Playoff Aspirations: Johnson’s development could be pivotal in the Spurs’ pursuit of a playoff spot.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Keldon Johnson
In recent interviews, Keldon Johnson shared his thoughts on the upcoming season and his transformation:
“I’ve learned that the game is so much more than individual talent. It’s about how we play together as a unit. I’m excited for the challenges ahead and to grow with my teammates.” – Keldon Johnson
Benefits of Keldon Johnson’s Transformation
Johnson’s journey from a gold medalist to a committed team player offers several benefits:
- Improved Team Chemistry: A focus on collaboration fosters better relationships among players, leading to enhanced performance.
- Increased Versatility: Developing a well-rounded skill set makes him a more valuable player, adaptable to various game situations.
- Long-Term Success: A strong team player is crucial for sustainable success in the NBA, paving the way for future opportunities.
Conclusion
Keldon Johnson’s transformation as he gears up for the new NBA season is a testament to his dedication and growth mindset. By evolving from a standout individual player to a key team player, Johnson is not only setting himself up for a successful season but also contributing to the overall success of the Spurs. With his hard work and focus, the basketball community eagerly anticipates what lies ahead for this promising athlete.
