How an NBA trainer as a father shaped Isaiah Johnson’s career

Colorado Buffaloes point guard Isaiah Johnson has been fearless on the court, and having a famous NBA father is one of the key reasons why. (Photo by Kekoa Brown/Sko Buffs Sports)

Colorado Buffaloes freshman guard Isaiah Johnson grew up around the game of basketball. His father is world-renowned NBA trainer Chris Johnson, working with NBA stars such as LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Paul.

Johnson tries to model his game after some of the players his father trains, including Chris Paul, Tyrese Maxey and Darius Garland, but credits much of his success to his father.

Johnson’s father has taught him a lot about the sport, but one lesson stuck.

“Just to work hard every day,” Johnson said. “Skills can only get you so far, but if you have that work ethic and if you keep pushing every day, you’ll get to where you need to be.”

Johnson’s hard work has been paying off, as he’s played 57 minutes this season, the most among CU freshmen. Additionally, he has shot 58% from the field through the first two games.

Johnson has been the top scorer so far this season for the Buffs, averaging 18.7 points per game, and he’s poised to have a great freshman season. More than that, he’s shown maturity beyond his years.

“He’s a special kid, especially for a freshman,” coach Tad Boyle said. “He doesn’t play like a freshman.”

What’s helped him most about having his father be an NBA trainer isn’t just the physical regimen. It’s an immense feel for the sport he gained much earlier than most.

“His knowledge of the game,” Johnson said. “Just being able to sit down and watch film with me and watch other basketball games helped me out.”

Being around pros from a young age and having a high-profile father doesn’t faze Isaiah, though. In Boulder, he’s come into his own without hesitation

“Nah, it’s no pressure at all,” Johnson said.

He showed this calm, collected manner on the court against Montana State on Nov. 3, as he scored 24 points in the second half after a scoreless first 20 minutes to lead the Buffs past the Bobcats.

“Isaiah’s one of those guys when the game’s on the line, you feel really comfortable with the ball in his hands,” Boyle said postgame.

And no matter where he goes next, Johnson knows he’ll always have a No. 1 fan in his dad.

“He’s taught me everything I know,” Johnson said.