Men’s Basketball’s Johnson Named to Naismith Trophy Men’s Player of the Year Midseason Team
The 2025 college basketball season has been full of standout performances, but none quite as eye-catching as the rise of Marcus Johnson, the star guard for the Texas Longhorns. As the season has unfolded, Johnson has proven himself to be one of the most dynamic and consistent players in the nation, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. This week, Johnson earned a well-deserved spot on the prestigious Naismith Trophy Men’s Player of the Year Midseason Team, marking a major career milestone.
A Stellar Season for Marcus Johnson
Marcus Johnson’s selection to the Naismith Trophy Midseason Team is a testament to his exceptional play throughout the first half of the season. The junior guard has been nothing short of phenomenal for the Longhorns, leading his team with poise and impressive skill on both ends of the court. Johnson has consistently been one of the most efficient and productive players in college basketball, and his ability to take over games has made him a standout in the Big 12 Conference and beyond.
As of midseason, Johnson is averaging over 22 points per game, making him one of the top scorers in the country. But it’s not just his scoring that has captured attention—his all-around game, including his playmaking, defense, and leadership, has made him one of the most well-rounded players in the nation. Johnson’s versatility allows him to impact games in multiple ways, whether it’s hitting clutch shots in the closing minutes, defending opposing stars, or creating opportunities for his teammates with sharp passes.
In addition to his scoring, Johnson’s efficiency has been remarkable. He’s shooting over 50% from the field and hitting better than 40% of his three-point attempts, a combination that has made him an incredibly difficult player to defend. His ability to stretch the floor while also attacking the basket makes him a dual threat that keeps opposing defenses guessing. Johnson has proven time and time again that he can perform in high-pressure situations, delivering when his team needs him the most.
The Naismith Trophy and Its Prestige
The Naismith Trophy is one of the most coveted individual honors in college basketball. Presented annually by the Atlanta Tipoff Club, the Naismith Trophy recognizes the top men’s college basketball player in the nation. It is awarded to the player who not only excels on the court but also demonstrates leadership, sportsmanship, and the ability to inspire teammates.
Being named to the Naismith Trophy Midseason Team is a significant accomplishment, as it highlights the players who are among the best in the country at the halfway point of the season. This honor places Johnson in the company of some of the most elite players in college basketball, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s brightest stars. Previous recipients of the Naismith Trophy, including the likes of Kevin Durant, Zion Williamson, and Luka Dončić, have gone on to have successful careers in the NBA, further underscoring the prestige that comes with being named to the midseason team.
Johnson’s Impact on Texas Basketball
Marcus Johnson’s inclusion in the Naismith Trophy Midseason Team is not just a personal achievement—it’s also a reflection of the growth and success of Texas basketball under head coach Rodney Terry. The Longhorns have been one of the top teams in the Big 12 this season, and much of that success can be attributed to Johnson’s leadership and performance. His scoring ability, combined with his basketball IQ and defensive prowess, has made him the focal point of the team’s offense and a key figure in their defensive schemes.
Texas has benefitted greatly from Johnson’s consistency, as he has helped the Longhorns stay competitive in one of the toughest conferences in college basketball. With his leadership, Texas has emerged as a legitimate contender for a high seed in the NCAA tournament. Johnson’s presence on the court also elevates the play of his teammates, as his ability to draw attention from defenders opens up opportunities for others. Whether it’s creating space for shooters or setting up pick-and-roll plays, Johnson has been instrumental in orchestrating the offense for Texas.
In addition to his on-court contributions, Johnson’s leadership has been invaluable in the locker room. As a team captain, he leads by example, showing his teammates the level of commitment and work ethic required to succeed at the highest level. Johnson’s maturity and focus have made him a trusted figure within the program, and his ability to lead both by voice and by action has been a driving force behind Texas’ success this season.
Johnson’s Development as a Player
One of the most impressive aspects of Marcus Johnson’s game has been his development from year to year. When Johnson arrived at Texas, he was already a highly touted recruit, but his game has evolved in significant ways since then. His ability to develop as a well-rounded player, combining elite scoring with strong playmaking and defense, has made him one of the most complete players in college basketball today.
Over the course of his career, Johnson has worked tirelessly to improve his shooting, ball handling, and decision-making. His improvement in shooting from beyond the arc has been particularly notable, as he has turned into a reliable three-point threat. His playmaking has also taken a leap, as he’s become more adept at running the offense and creating opportunities for his teammates. Johnson’s defensive development has also been impressive, as he has become a lockdown defender on the perimeter, capable of guarding a variety of opposing players.
The work ethic that Johnson brings to the court has been a key factor in his development. His relentless pursuit of improvement has earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates, and it’s clear that he has put in the hours necessary to reach this level. Johnson’s growth as a player has not only helped Texas as a team but has also positioned him for a potential future in the NBA.
National Recognition and Future Outlook
With his selection to the Naismith Trophy Midseason Team, Marcus Johnson has cemented his place among the top players in college basketball. However, he isn’t resting on his laurels—he remains focused on the task at hand, which is helping Texas achieve its goals for the remainder of the season. The Longhorns have a difficult road ahead, but with Johnson leading the charge, they are positioned to make a serious run in the NCAA tournament.
As the season progresses, Johnson will continue to be a key player for Texas, with the hopes of securing a high seed in the tournament and potentially making a deep run toward a national championship. His individual performance will be closely watched by NBA scouts, as he has the potential to be a high draft pick in the upcoming NBA draft. Regardless of what the future holds, however, Johnson’s inclusion on the Naismith Trophy Midseason Team serves as a reminder of the incredible journey he’s been on, and the bright future that lies ahead.
For now, Johnson remains focused on his team’s goals, and Texas will rely on him as they continue their quest for greatness. With his skill, leadership, and determination, Marcus Johnson has solidified himself as one of the premier players in college basketball and one of the most exciting players to watch as the season heads into its final stretch.