Story by
Keldon Johnson Ignores 'Praise' After Best Game of Spurs' Season
- Story by
- Keldon Johnson Ignores 'Praise' After Best Game of Spurs' Season
(IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
The San Antonio Spurs crushed the Utah Jazz on Monday, winning 119-97. San Antonio led by as many as 26 points in the fourth quarter, and everyone got in on the barrage.
In addition to every starter scoring in double figures, both Keldon Johnson and Harrison Barnes added 15 and 13 points apiece, respectively. Plus, Luke Kornet had his best game of the season so far, posting eight points and five boards, along with stellar defense.
Advertisement
Aside from Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama struggling to get it going from 3-point range, there really wasn't a reason for fans to complain after the game. Even with all of the positives, though, Johnson wants fans to keep their "praise" to themselves.
READ MORE: 'Smart' Veteran Is Just An Added Bonus for Overpowered Spurs
READ MORE: Spurs' Superstar Dylan Harper 'Takes Pride' In Being a Sidekick
READ MORE: Spurs Cruise Past Utah Jazz, Show Off Their Biggest Weapon
Keldon Johnson Remains Future-Focused
In his eight seasons with the Spurs, Johnson has kept his eye on the horizon. He joined a rebuilding team, suffered through several disappointing seasons, and emerged on the other end. A championship, though, remains elusive.
Advertisement
Dating back to last spring's postseason, Johnson has taken a clear step back. His defense has been questionable, and shots simply haven't fallen with any efficiency. Seeing the tide turn on Monday has given fans hope, but he knows that he needs to keep his nose to the grindstone.
"Just do my job," he summed up. "Bring the energy. And like every offseason, attack the offseason and try to come back a better player. And just continue to grow my game. The praise will come, and it will go. But I feel like I just got to continue to get better and continue to go out there and be the best version of Keldon Johnson each and every night so that I'm best for my team and put us in the best situation to win."
That's not to say that Johnson isn't thankful for his long-standing support from fans, but it's clear that he's not happy with his play to kick off the season. Monday's game night will be the start of a positive shift, but he knows that he can't take it for granted.
Julian Champagnie has, and Tobias Harris will, push Johnson further down the bench, but he knows that he needs to be ready for whenever his number is called. He's still a core member of this roster, after all.
