Brice Johnson often gets overlooked when you read articles featuring the Tar Heels heading into the 2014-2015 season. The main questions have revolved around Marcus Paige’s leadership and scoring ability, Kennedy Meeks weight loss and the infusion of three competitive freshman that can lift North Carolina back into the final four. The biggest piece of the puzzle might just be the play of Brice Johnson and with his minutes expected to increase this year the junior needs to make his mark now with this years team.
Johnson is gifted offensively yet this season he will have to increase his intensity on the defensive side of the ball especially without James Michael McAdoo in the line up. Johnson have virtually doubled his production when when his minutes were twice as many during his sophomore season. Johnson has to stay active in the game even when he is not scoring. He at times appears to drift and lose focus when he is not involved in the offense.
Brice Johnson is that post scoring presence that is always available when Roy Williams coaches a team deep into the tournament. From Marvin Williams to John Henson the Tar Heels offense is at its best with dominant four man. Even in 2009 Deon Thompson was a offensive threat to support Tyler Hansbrough and when Ed Davis came in he provided the length to alter shots and be a presence on the defensive end of the floor. Brice Johnson has the length and skill to do both for North Carolina. The question will be can he stay focused on both ends even if he is not scoring?