Chris Johnson happy to still be playing

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By Doug Harris, Staff Writer 10:01 PM Saturday, March 20, 2010

Chris Johnson was dejected about not returning to the NCAA tournament this season after making such a splash a year ago, but Brink Harrison, who tutors basketball players at the University of Dayton, helped the Flyer sophomore gain perspective.

Harrison’s point was how an invitation to the NIT has put UD in a select class of teams that were able to prolong their seasons with a tournament berth. And the message helped Johnson gain perspective.

“I have two more years (to make the NCAA), and I’m proud to still be playing,” Johnson said. “A lot of teams aren’t playing. They’re at home. And I want to take advantage of being with my teammates and finish up strong.”

The Flyers will have at least one more game with a second-round NIT matchup at Cincinnati on Monday, March 22. Johnson had a game-high 13 points and nine rebounds in the NIT opener against Illinois State, and UD will need him to be at his best against UC, especially on defense.

Johnson will be pitted against Big East rookie of the year Lance Stephenson.

“C.J. has had a great sophomore year, and the best part about it is he’s been able to identify crucial areas where he can really improve,” UD coach Brian Gregory said.

“He’s got to be one of the guys we can count on at both ends of the court. And even though he’s a wing, he’s got to develop his guard skills like handling the ball.”

One of his goals last offseason was to win the Atlantic 10’s most improved player award, and he worked endless hours with graduate assistant Eric Farrell and others to make it happen.

“After I received that award, I thanked him for all the hard work and effort he put in — and also (workout partner) Dan Fox, just for helping me have the opportunity to get that award. But there’s more areas where I can improve my game. ... I know I’ll be here two more years, and I just want to get better.”

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