UNC Basketball: Puff Johnson Makes 2022-2023 Debut

UNC Basketball junior guard/forward Puff Johnson made his season debut versus James Madison University on Sunday and immediately made an impact.

On Sunday, November 20th, junior guard/forward Puff Johnson made his season debut for UNC Basketball. He immediately made an impact and reminded Tar Heel fans why he is one of the most interesting players on the roster.

Johnson scored six points and recorded an assist over 13 minutes of action. What does not show is the other things Johnson did during his time on the floor. At around the 2:30 mark in the first half, Johnson sprinted down the floor and immediately went to the paint on defense. His man was on the weak side of the court and away from the ball. When the ball handler drove to the basket, Johnson stepped over, took the charge, and caused a turnover. He was perfectly positioned. That is what Puff Johnson brings to this team.

As I said earlier this week when he was cleared to practice, Johnson brings a unique dynamic to this team.

"There might not be a more interesting player on the UNC basketball program’s roster than Johnson. Fair or unfair, many fans likely expected him to step in and play just like his older brother and former Tar Heel Cameron Johnson. However, Johnson’s time in Chapel Hill thus far has been impacted by injuries, as he’s missed some significant time on the court."

Good things seem to happen when Johnson is on the floor. He provides great length on defense and is always a three-point shooting threat for Coach Hubert Davis. Johnson plays hard and provides Coach Davis with another tool off the bench that can play multiple positions.

The hope is that Johnson can stay healthy and continue to provide great minutes off the bench for the Tar Heels.

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