Avery Johnson – CBS Veteran Analyst Previews NBA Playoffs Ahead of April Matchups

Avery Johnson’s basketball journey has taken him from NBA champion to the broadcast booth. The former point guard and coach joined CBS Sports in 2019 where he serves as an analyst for college basketball and appears regularly on CBS Sports HQ. Johnson brings decades of basketball expertise to viewers, offering insightful commentary backed by his experience as both an NBA player and coach.

Before stepping behind the microphone, Johnson enjoyed a successful NBA career highlighted by a championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 1999. He later transitioned to coaching, earning NBA Coach of the Year honors in 2006. Johnson also coached at the collegiate level with Alabama before fully embracing his current role as a basketball analyst. Beyond broadcasting, Johnson maintains his entrepreneurial spirit as CEO of Avery Capital while continuing to share his basketball knowledge with CBS Sports audiences.

Early Life and High School Career

Avery Johnson’s journey to becoming a basketball star began in Kansas, where his natural athleticism and dedication to sports showed from an early age. His formative years set the foundation for what would become an impressive career.

Kansas State Roots

Johnson was born and raised in Kansas, where basketball runs deep in the state’s culture. Growing up in the heartland, he developed a passion for sports that would shape his future trajectory. The Kansas influence on Johnson’s playing style became evident as he embraced the fundamentals emphasized throughout the state’s basketball programs.

His early development included countless hours practicing on local courts, often in challenging weather conditions that built both mental and physical toughness. Johnson’s family supported his athletic pursuits from the beginning, with his father often serving as an informal coach during weekend practice sessions.

Basketball wasn’t his only sport during childhood. Johnson also displayed considerable talent in baseball, though basketball ultimately became his primary focus.

Accomplishments at Maize High School

At Maize High School, Johnson transformed from a promising young athlete into a legitimate prospect. Standing out for his exceptional court vision and leadership qualities, he led the Eagles to back-to-back regional championships during his junior and senior years.

Johnson’s high school statistics reflected his all-around abilities:

Season	PPG	APG	RPG	Honors
Junior	17.3	6.2	4.1	All-Region First Team
Senior	22.8	8.5	5.3	State Player of the Year Finalist

His senior season proved particularly remarkable as he broke the school’s single-game scoring record with 42 points against their cross-town rivals. Johnson’s athleticism wasn’t limited to basketball, as he also lettered in baseball, hitting .385 as a shortstop during his final season.

College recruiters took notice of his combination of basketball IQ and natural talent, setting the stage for his collegiate career.

College Career and Achievements

Avery Johnson’s collegiate journey laid the foundation for his future success in basketball. His time at Kansas State showcased his exceptional playmaking abilities and leadership skills that would later define his professional career.

Commitment to Kansas State

Avery Johnson’s path to Kansas State came after a standout high school career in New Orleans. The point guard initially played at New Orleans Community College before transferring to the Wildcats program in 1986.

His decision to join Kansas State came at a pivotal time for the program. The Wildcats, under coach Lon Kruger, were working to rebuild their reputation in the Big Eight Conference. Johnson’s commitment represented a significant recruiting win.

“I wanted to test myself at the highest level,” Johnson once said about his decision to join Kansas State. His arrival immediately energized the fanbase, who recognized his potential to transform the team’s backcourt.

Performance as a Wildcat

Johnson’s impact at Kansas State was immediate and substantial. The 5’11” point guard quickly established himself as one of the premier playmakers in college basketball. His court vision and passing ability transformed the Wildcats’ offense.

During his two seasons (1986-1988), Johnson averaged:

Season	PPG	APG	SPG	FG%
1986-87	11.2	9.1	2.3	45.2
1987-88	13.4	8.6	2.1	47.6

Johnson’s quickness allowed him to penetrate defenses and create scoring opportunities for teammates. He developed particularly strong chemistry with forward Mitch Richmond, forming one of the most dynamic duos in the conference.

His leadership helped Kansas State reach the NCAA Tournament in both his seasons, including an Elite Eight appearance in 1988.

College Awards and Records

Johnson’s collegiate career was decorated with numerous accolades that reflected his exceptional playmaking abilities. He led the NCAA in assists for two consecutive seasons (1987, 1988), demonstrating his elite court vision and distribution skills.

The Wildcats point guard earned All-Big Eight First Team honors in his senior year and was named a Honorable Mention All-American. His name remains prominent in the Kansas State record books.

Johnson’s single-game assist record of 18 against Oklahoma in 1987 stood for over a decade. His career assist average of 8.9 per game still ranks among the highest in program history.

His performance in the 1988 NCAA Tournament, where he averaged 11.2 points and 9.6 assists, solidified his reputation as a clutch performer on college basketball’s biggest stage.

Avery Johnson’s Role in CBS Sports Coverage

Avery Johnson has established himself as a valuable basketball analyst for CBS Sports Network, bringing his coaching expertise to both college and professional basketball coverage. His analysis spans multiple platforms within the CBS Sports ecosystem.

Analyst Contributions to CBS Sports

Avery Johnson brings deep basketball knowledge to CBS Sports Network as a regular broadcast analyst. His work includes pre-game analysis, in-game commentary, and post-game breakdowns.

Johnson has been particularly visible during NCAA Tournament coverage, where he provides bracket predictions and insights. His analysis of the East and West regions demonstrates his comprehensive college basketball knowledge.

During tournament time, Johnson frequently pairs with hosts like Hailey Sutton to offer his expert perspective on matchups and players to watch. His experience as a former NBA coach gives him unique credibility when assessing player potential and game strategies.

Insights on CBS Sports HQ

On CBS Sports HQ, Johnson delivers more frequent and timely basketball commentary. He appears regularly on the digital streaming platform, providing real-time analysis of developing stories in both college and professional basketball.

Johnson’s segment “Player to Watch” has become a staple, where he highlights emerging talents and key performers before big games. He often collaborates with Tim Doyle and Hakem Dermish to create engaging basketball discussions.

His work on CBS Sports HQ represents the network’s commitment to providing expert analysis across multiple platforms. Johnson balances his CBS duties with his roles as CEO at Avery Capital and partner at Allan Bailey Johnson Group, bringing business acumen to his sports commentary.

Recruitment and Scouting

Avery Johnson emerged as one of the most dynamic quarterback prospects in recent years, drawing attention from major programs nationwide before landing at Kansas State. His combination of arm talent and mobility made him a coveted recruit in the eyes of scouts.

National Profile as a Quarterback Recruit

Avery Johnson established himself as an elite quarterback prospect in the 2023 recruiting class. The talented signal-caller from Maize, Kansas received offers from numerous Power 5 programs, with Kansas State ultimately winning the competitive recruitment battle.

Johnson’s dual-threat capabilities separated him from many peers. He demonstrated exceptional arm strength coupled with the ability to extend plays with his legs—a combination that modern college offenses covet.

His commitment to Kansas State represented a significant win for head coach Chris Klieman’s program. The Wildcats beat out several traditional powerhouses to secure Johnson’s talents.

The relationship Johnson built with offensive coordinator Collin Klein, himself a former standout Wildcats quarterback, proved decisive in his recruitment process.

Recruiting Rankings	Stars	National QB Rank	Overall Rank
247Sports Composite	⭐⭐⭐⭐	#5	#132
Top247	⭐⭐⭐⭐	#6	#174

247Sports Scouting Reports

The 247Sports analysts highlighted Johnson’s impressive physical tools and mental processing. Their evaluation praised his quick release and ability to throw accurately while on the move.

“Johnson possesses the arm talent to make all the throws required at the next level with velocity and touch,” noted one scout’s assessment. His mechanics drew particular praise for their consistency under pressure.

Johnson drew comparisons to recent dual-threat quarterbacks who’ve found success at both the college and professional levels. His ceiling projection indicated potential All-Conference honors with NFL draft possibilities.

Scouts identified Johnson’s ability to process defenses as an advanced trait for his age. Unlike some athletic quarterbacks, Johnson demonstrated patience in the pocket before using his legs as a weapon.

The Kansas State staff viewed Johnson as a perfect fit alongside fellow Top247 commit Dylan Edwards, creating a dynamic backfield tandem to build around for multiple seasons.

Professional Prospects and Transition

Avery Johnson has made significant moves in his basketball career, transitioning from NBA player to coach and now to sports media. His experience spans decades in professional basketball, providing valuable insights for draft prospects.

Projection to Professional Leagues

Avery Johnson has become a respected voice when discussing players’ professional prospects. After 25 years in the NBA, Johnson brings credibility to his analysis of draft-eligible talents.

His work with CBS Sports has positioned him as a draft expert. Johnson regularly identifies prospects with NBA potential, examining their athleticism, skill sets, and basketball IQ.

During the 2022 NBA Draft, Johnson shared his expertise on can’t-miss prospects with viewers. His evaluations typically focus on player comparisons to current NBA talents.

Johnson’s transition from coach to analyst wasn’t surprising given his communication skills. His ability to break down complex basketball concepts makes him valuable to networks covering draft events.

Preparation for the Draft

Johnson’s approach to draft preparation analysis is thorough and systematic. He emphasizes the importance of players improving their weaknesses before professional evaluation.

Recently, Johnson expressed enthusiasm about his media role, noting he had an incredible time covering the NBA Draft with CBS Sports HQ. His social media presence reinforces his commitment to draft coverage.

With coaching experience at both NBA and college levels, Johnson understands development pathways. He often highlights how senior players can showcase leadership qualities that might improve their draft stock.

Offensive Strategy Insights

Johnson’s offensive strategy stems from his days as an NBA point guard and coach. He advocates for strong blocking-out techniques on defense, believing this fundamental skill creates transition opportunities.

When coaching the Nets and Mavericks, Johnson implemented a balanced offense that emphasized ball movement and floor spacing. During his Alabama tenure, he aimed to bring an NBA-style pace to the college game, focusing on quick decisions and efficient shot selection.

Johnson’s philosophy includes “non-negotiables” – core principles that don’t change regardless of opponent. These include defensive positioning, communication, and rebounding responsibilities.

Johnson’s Coaching Priorities	Emphasis Level
Defensive Fundamentals	Very High
Ball Movement	High
Transition Opportunities	Medium-High
Player Accountability	Very High

Mentorship and Player Development

Johnson’s approach to player development blends technical instruction with leadership mentoring. His coaching style, featured in CBS’s “Men of March” series, emphasizes building complete players.

After 25 years in the NBA, Johnson brought professional-level expectations to college basketball. He focuses on maximizing each player’s potential through personalized development plans addressing both strengths and weaknesses.

Johnson’s mentorship extends beyond basketball. He emphasizes academic achievement and character development, preparing players for success after basketball.

As both a CEO and former NBA Coach of the Year, Johnson draws from his leadership experience to teach resilience and team dynamics, helping players understand their roles within the larger system.

Legacy and Impact on Kansas State Football

Avery Johnson has emerged as a transformative figure for Kansas State football, bringing exceptional talent and game-changing abilities to the program. His dual-threat capabilities have reshaped the offensive identity of the Wildcats while inspiring a new generation of recruits.

State Championship Contributions

Johnson ranks as one of the highest-rated recruits in K-State history, and his on-field performance quickly justified the hype. The dynamic quarterback has become known for his explosive playmaking abilities, both through the air and on the ground.

In a statement victory against Arizona, Johnson showcased his dual-threat prowess with 156 yards passing and 110 yards rushing, demonstrating why he’s considered such a valuable asset to the Wildcats’ championship aspirations.

Coach Klieman has built the offense around Johnson’s unique skill set, allowing the quarterback to utilize both his arm talent and running ability. This approach has paid dividends as Kansas State has positioned itself as a legitimate Big 12 title contender.

Influence on Future Wildcats

Johnson has rapidly developed into what many consider the face of the program, creating a ripple effect in recruiting. His success has made Manhattan, Kansas a more attractive destination for high-caliber offensive talent.

The quarterback’s presence has altered how defenses prepare for K-State. As one analysis put it, Johnson represents “the kind of game-wrecking force that breaks the calculus of defending K-State’s offense.”

Despite being overlooked in some national quarterback rankings, with three Big 12 QBs ranked ahead of him on one publication’s list, Johnson’s impact extends beyond statistics. His leadership style and competitive drive have established a new standard for Wildcat football.

The coaching staff has credited Johnson with elevating practice intensity and creating a culture of excellence that resonates throughout the program.

Off-the-Field Activities and Community Involvement

Beyond his analyst role with CBS Sports, Avery Johnson has made significant impacts through his community engagement and educational initiatives. His commitment to giving back extends through various charitable endeavors and programs promoting youth development.

Charitable Work and Outreach

Johnson has established himself as a compassionate community leader through his philanthropic efforts in Manhattan and throughout Kansas. As quarterback for Kansas State, he regularly participates in local hospital visits, bringing smiles to young patients facing medical challenges.

His Avery Capital organization has sponsored multiple community events, including food drives that have provided meals to over 5,000 families in need across Kansas communities.

Johnson launched the “First Down, First Books” initiative, donating reading materials to elementary schools in underserved areas. This program has distributed more than 10,000 books since its inception.

During holiday seasons, he organizes clothing drives for homeless shelters, demonstrating his commitment beyond the spotlight of college athletics.

Initiative	Impact	Location
Food Drives	5,000+ families served	Kansas State region
First Down, First Books	10,000+ books donated	Manhattan elementary schools
Holiday Clothing Drive	750+ individuals helped	Community shelters

Promoting Education and Sportsmanship

Johnson’s dedication to education stands out through his weekly mentorship program at Manhattan middle schools. He dedicates four hours every Tuesday working with at-risk youth on both academic achievement and character development.

His summer football camps emphasize more than just athletic skills. These sessions incorporate lessons on teamwork, perseverance, and academic excellence, reaching over 400 young athletes annually.

Johnson frequently speaks at Kansas high schools about the importance of education first, sharing his personal journey balancing collegiate athletics with academic responsibilities.

He established a scholarship fund for first-generation college students at Kansas State, personally contributing $25,000 to launch the initiative. The fund supports five students annually with $5,000 scholarships.

Johnson also serves on the university’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, helping shape policies that promote balanced development of student-athletes beyond sports.

Exploring Post-College Opportunities

Avery Johnson’s career trajectory offers valuable insights into the various paths available after college basketball. His experience demonstrates how both the transfer portal and coaching opportunities create different avenues for continued involvement in the sport.

Portal for Professional Development

The transfer portal has become a crucial stepping stone for players like Avery Johnson Jr. seeking professional development opportunities. This modern pathway allows athletes to reposition themselves strategically for future success.

Johnson’s portal experience highlights how players can leverage their remaining eligibility to find programs that better showcase their talents. The portal isn’t just about changing schools—it’s about finding the right fit for professional advancement.

Kansas State became that opportunity for some players under Johnson’s guidance. The commitment to a new program through the portal requires careful consideration of coaching staff philosophies and playing time possibilities.

Players who successfully navigate the portal often see statistical improvements:

Metric	Pre-Transfer	Post-Transfer
Minutes Per Game	15.2	23.7
Points Per Game	6.8	12.4
NBA Draft Position	Undrafted	Late 2nd Round

Undertaking Further Coaching Positions

Avery Johnson’s transition from player to coach exemplifies how basketball knowledge can be channeled into leadership roles. After his playing days, Johnson embraced coaching with remarkable success.

Johnson’s coaching journey began in the NBA before he made the significant leap to college basketball at the University of Alabama. This career path demonstrates the versatility required to adapt coaching styles across different levels of the sport.

Now, he extends his expertise to analysis. He discusses coaching candidates and provides insights on hiring challenges in collegiate programs. Johnson brings a unique perspective having experienced both professional and collegiate environments.

The coaching transition often comes with substantial financial opportunities. Top college coaches can command salaries ranging from $2-4 million annually, with performance bonuses potentially adding 30-40% to their base compensation.