Keldon Johnson reflects on journey as he climbs up Spurs list San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson scored 13 points in a 115-102 victory over Charlotte on Saturday, moving past Matt Bonner into fourth place on the franchise’s career bench scoring list with 2,630 points. The seventh-year pro now trails only Hall of Famer Manu Ginobili (8,278), Patty Mills (5,540), and Malik Rose (3,272). Johnson’s performance came as he celebrated his growing role on the team, which has evolved significantly since Gregg Popovich moved him to the bench in December 2023. Johnson, who averaged 12.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting 37.9% from three-point range, emphasized the importance of team success over individual accolades. “When you want to win, you have to remove your ego,” he said. “We all want to see each other be successful. I had to pull my ego away and say, ‘This is what’s best for the team.’” His commitment to the team’s strategy has paid off, with Johnson on pace to break his own franchise season record for bench points (979) set last season. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praised the forward’s growth, calling it “a joy” to watch him mature and fully embrace his role. “It’s a good example of Keldon’s commitment and how he’s investing into this organization,” the coach said. Despite his rising status, Johnson remains humble, acknowledging the challenge of competing with legends like Ginobili and Mills. “There are things I would say you try to downplay,” he said of milestones like surpassing Bonner. “But it’s big time and a testament to my hard work and everything I’ve been through.” Johnson’s journey has also been shaped by mentorship from veteran players. DeMar DeRozan, who played for the Spurs from 2018 to 2021, has been a key figure in his development.#san_antonio_spurs #keldon_johnson #matt_bonner #manu_ginobili #patty_mills
