The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a big moment for the Utah Jazz, who hold the fifth overall pick, as the top name circulating in their draft discussion is Tre Johnson, a guard from the University of Texas who drew attention during his freshman season.
As predicted in the recent column, Johnson’s fit with Utah makes sense, given his scoring prowess. He averaged 19.9 points per game and shot 39.7% from three-point range, establishing himself as a scoring star in college hoops.
After losing Donovan Mitchell to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2022, the Jazz have been hunting for a star-level shooting guard. Johnson could step into that role from day one, but his journey from college stardom to NBA success will depend on how his game evolves in Utah.
How Tre Johnson Dominated College Basketball as a Freshman
Johnson didn’t just compete in his freshman year at Texas; he dominated, stepping onto the court for the Longhorns, and he quickly became the centerpiece of their offense. In his debut against Ohio State, he dropped 29 points, including five three-pointers, breaking Kevin Durant’s Texas freshman scoring record.
Good day for Tre Johnson at the NBA draft combine. Tested well, hit 68% of his aggregate jumpers in drills, and measured a 6’10 wingspan and 37 1/2 inch vertical leap.
NBA teams are increasingly talking about him as a safe pick, with significant long-term upside to grow into. pic.twitter.com/LSsa93if9F
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 14, 2025
Later, he torched Arkansas for 39 points, setting another program mark for first-year players. He showed he could consistently put up big numbers.
At 19, he handled the pressure of being the go-to guy like a veteran. Teammates and coaches raved about his fearlessness in big moments. When the game tightened up, Johnson wanted the ball and delivered more often than not. That kind of clutch gene is rare for a freshman, and it’s a big reason he’s on the Jazz’s radar.
For all his offensive brilliance, Johnson’s game isn’t flawless. Defense was the most significant question mark during his time at Texas. He didn’t stand out on the defensive end, often getting beaten off the dribble by quicker guards.
His steal and block numbers were low, and his effort sometimes wavered when he wasn’t scoring. The Jazz, who struggle defensively, will need him to step up in this area.
His athleticism is yet another concern. Johnson isn’t a high-flyer or a lightning-quick guard. He relies on skill and smarts rather than raw explosiveness.
In college, that worked fine, but NBA defenders are faster and stronger. He must lean on his craftiness to create space and finish against bigger bodies at the rim. His 6’10” wingspan helps, but improving his lateral quickness will be key.
How Johnson’s College Skills Could Translate to Utah
Landing with the Jazz could be a perfect storm for Johnson’s development. His three-point shooting fits today’s NBA like a glove. At 39.7% from deep, he can stretch defenses and open up the floor, something Utah’s offense desperately needs.
He’d immediately step in as their best shooting guard option, giving them a scoring punch they’ve missed since Mitchell left.
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In college, Johnson was the alpha. But if he eventually gets drafted by Utah, he’ll share the load, which could help him. Playing off the ball as a catch-and-shoot threat will let him ease into the league while he adjusts to NBA speed.
His development in Utah will hinge on a few things. First, defense. If he can become even an average defender, it’ll keep him on the floor longer. Second, chemistry. Playing alongside other young pieces, he’ll need to balance scoring with teamwork.
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