Royals Selected to Finish Second in Preseason Rankings

Knoxville, TN- As the Royals gear up for another exciting season of college basketball, the anticipation surrounding the team is high. Coming off a strong debut season under head coach Logan Sharp, the Royals posted a commendable record of 16-13, finishing with a 14-10 mark in the AAC. Their historic journey to the AAC conference playoffs marked a significant milestone, as they won their first playoff game as underdogs, showcasing their potential on a larger stage.

The Royals have garnered attention heading into the new season, earning a solid position in the AAC preseason poll. With one first-place vote, Johnson is currently ranked second, reflecting the optimism surrounding the program as they build on their recent successes. One of the biggest additions is transfer Mason Lockhart who the coaching staff feels has potential to be one of the best bigs in the country. In addition, the Royals add freshman Tyler Moore, junior Kavon Blankenship, freshman Caden Windle and graduate transfer Ben Rice who are all set to play key roles on this year's team. The Royals will also look to leverage the talents of standout players from last season. Toris Woods, who earned First Team All-Conference honors, along with Isaiah Poore, recognized for his defensive strengths, and Dallas Carbaugh, who claimed the AAC Freshman of the Year award, are poised to make substantial contributions.

Head Coach Logan Sharp is optimistic about the team's potential. "We are excited about our returning players and the opportunity we have to mix them together with our talented recruiting class," Sharp stated.

With the season approaching, all eyes will be on the Royals as they aim to build on their promising foundation. The blend of returning stars and new faces offers a unique opportunity for Johnson University to make a significant impact in the AAC. As the players prepare to hit the court, the excitement among fans and the broader basketball community continues to grow.