Former Longhorn Tre Johnson reveals NBA jersey number
Former Longhorn basketball star Tre Johnson has checked another milestone off his bucket list. The Wizards newest star has picked his NBA jersey number. After wearing No. 21 as a Longhorn, Johnson has selected No. 12 to start his NBA career.
During his time as a Longhorn, Johnson wore No.20 as a way to honor his father. That is the number he wore during his playing days. The number brought him a lot of luck as he quickly became one of the best players in the country. In his only collegiate season, Johnson averaged 19.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.
As Johnson begins the next chapter of his college career, his number isn't the only change coming. The Texas native will also include "III" on the back of his jersey to acknowledge his full name: Richard Earl Johnson III. That is his new way to honor his father's legacy.
When asked why No.12 is the number he is going with, Johnson gave a simple answer. He said, " I kinda just stared at the list and [saw] which one grew on me."
Johnson is joining a Wizards team that is building a promising young core. Their roster features seven first-round picks who are 21 years old or younger. That includes Bub Carrington, Alex Sarr, Bilal Coulibaly, Kyshawn George, and AJ Johnson. If they can meet expectations, the Wizards future will be bright.
The roster also includes veterans CJ McCollum, Khris Middleton, and Marcus Smart. They will be good voices for Johnson to rely on as he makes the transition to the NBA. With his jersey number figured out, the former Longhorn guard can focus on helping end the Wizards title drought.
Fans won't have to wait long to see Johnson in action. The Wizard opens up their Summer League campaign in Las Vegas on July 11 against the Phoenix Suns. They are also scheduled to face the Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and Utah Jazz.
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