Keyontae Johnson Takes Home Game Ball After Scoring First NBA Points

Oklahoma City's rookie class has been terrific. Cason Wallace has far exceeded expectations and is a big part of the Thunder's rotation, and of course Chet Holmgren, who qualifies as a rookie, is taking the NBA by storm.

An unheralded piece of the Thunder's draft class Keyontae Johnson, has been progressing nicely too. His work has been done in the G League, and he has looked impressive in heavy minutes for the Oklahoma City Blue. Thursday night, he was finally available to play for the Thunder, and it was a memorable night.

Johnson netted his first NBA points and walked away wit the game ball. There was no trouble tracking it down either, as he let the Thunder's veteran leader take care of it.

Keyontae Johnson got his game ball for scoring his first NBA points, @MichaelOnSports did he have to fight anyone to get it? He said no, he let Kenrich Williams get it for him. pic.twitter.com/cGjQAIBkyI
— Rylan Stiles (@Rylan_Stiles) January 12, 2024

Despite being in the G League, Johnson has made the most of his first professional season. He was ready when his number was called on Thursday, too, adding four points, three rebounds and two assists. Head coach Mark Daigneault was very complimentary of him after the record-setting win.

"We dressed him for that reason, on a back-to-back you never know," Daigneault said. "We wanted him to be available. I give him a lot of credit, he’s just been in the G League, he’s done a great job with his development plan and hasn’t really gotten an NBA minute yet.

"He was grateful for the opportunity and plays like it. I have a lot of respect for how he has handled himself and he’s gotten better as a result to that approach. He has a great spirit of humility. He’s a blue collared guy and player."

With the Blue, Johnson is averaging 21.0 points and 7.3 rebounds on 52.3% shooting in eight games. He has a chance to contribute for Oklahoma City in the future if he continues his consistent play.

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