March 15, 2026, 1:46 p.m. ET
Rookie Tre Johnson has emerged as a full-time starter for the Washington Wizards of late, and coach Brian Keefe has been pleased with his growth on the court.
Johnson is averaging 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and two assists while shooting 37.1% from 3-point range with the Wizards. He ranks seventh in rookie scoring and has the most 3-pointers through the first 53 games of a career in franchise history (105).
The sixth overall pick entered the year highly touted as a scorer out of Texas because of his athleticism, shooting and ability to finish at the rim. He has showcased those traits while also emerging as a facilitator and a capable playmaker.
“You can just see him growing week to week, month by month,” Keefe said last week. “You obviously see the efficiency that he can shoot the ball, but I like how he has developed into a playmaker. Teams have adjusted to him because of the gravity that he has.”
Johnson has started 35 games this season for Keefe, including each of his past 31 appearances. He has finished in double figures 21 times, including a career-high 26 points and six assists on Jan. 24 in a loss on the road to the Chicago Bulls.
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The 20-year-old was among 10 first-year players selected to the Rising Stars Game last month at All-Star Weekend, joining the likes of Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper and VJ Edgecombe. The team has had a rookie representative in the annual showcase in three straight years.
Johnson is emerging as a consistent offensive threat for the Wizards, behind his array of moves, off-ball cutting and ability to shoot from deep. The group has been impressed with him and is eager to see his continued development this season and beyond.
“His ability to find passes has been a great growth for him because he has seen different coverages because of his ability to score,” Keefe said. “We got (16 games) left, just looking forward to watching him develop the rest of the year.”