San Antonio Spurs fans have a lot to be excited about heading into this season. Obviously, the highlight is Victor Wembanyama, who is slated to take over as the team’s new face of the franchise. Guys like Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan should also steal some of the spotlight as the Spurs look to make strides.
But flying under the radar is Keldon Johnson, who is too often left out when discussing how fun this young Spurs squad could be. He’ll be 24 years old soon, so he’s not quite as young as some of the other guys on the team. Plus, with Wembanyama set to play power forward and Zach Collins being named the starting center, Johnson could be moved into a sixth man role.
But he’s not focusing on the outside noise heading into the year. He’s ready to prove his doubters wrong. (H/t Matt Guzman of Inside the Spurs)
“I’m definitely excited,” Johnson said. “We’re ready to work. We’ve been working all summer. … I’ve grown a lot. I’ve put a lot of hard work and time into my body and my craft, so I’m ready. I’m excited to prove all the doubters wrong.”
More specifically, Johnson is ready to show what he has to offer on the defensive side of the ball.
“I’m always excited to learn as a player,” he said. “For me, I feel like it’s about showing that I can defend. I’m an elite defender, and that’s the part of my game I’m ready to show off.”
If Johnson can become a high-level defender, the Spurs will be in good shape.
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