Isaiah Johnson Shines in Freshman Year
Boulder, Colorado – Freshman guard Isaiah Johnson has made a remarkable impact this season. He was recently named to the NABC All-Mountain District First Team. This prestigious honor highlights his talent, alongside only nine other players from the region.
Johnson is leading the Colorado Buffaloes with an impressive 16.9 points per game. This achievement places him third in the Big 12 and 15th nationally among freshmen. He set a record for the most points scored in a freshman season at Colorado, surpassing Alec Burks’ previous mark of 512 points set in 2009–10.
His game is well-rounded. Johnson has also excelled in free throws, making 160 out of 195 attempts, and he’s knocked down 56 three-pointers this season. His defensive skills shine as well; he leads the team with 33 steals.
Coach Tommy Lloyd from Arizona, who was named Coach of the Year, praised players like Johnson for their growth in the sport. He noted, “Freshmen who make an immediate impact often have the potential to change the dynamic of a team.”
As the co-MVP for the 2025-26 season, Johnson is on track to be the eighth freshman in Colorado’s history to top the team’s scoring for an entire season. This places him among some great company in the program’s history.
Johnson’s recognition comes as a breath of fresh air for Colorado, marking the first time since KJ Simpson’s selection in 2023-24 that a player made the NABC all-district team. Over the years, the Buffaloes have had 15 players honored by the NABC since 1994, showcasing a rich tradition of basketball success.
The All-Mountain District First Team also featured talents from Arizona, Utah State, New Mexico, and more. This year’s composition illustrates the competitive nature of college basketball in the region.
As Johnson continues to impress, fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching his journey. His consistency and skill not only reflect well on him but also on the future of Colorado basketball.
For the complete list of players recognized, check the official NABC page here.
