Freshman Forward Damian Johnson to Redshirt

Damian Johnson, a 6-foot-7, 192-pound freshman forward, will redshirt this season. Johnson signed with the Gophers in the early signing period last fall. He played in the Howard Pulley Summer League and missed all three shots from the field in the Gophers' two exhibition games. Johnson grabbed five rebounds in the two contests.

Damian Johnson will use the redshirt season to gain needed strength to his long, lanky frame. Johnson was one of three freshman scholarship additions, joining Brandon Smith and Kevin Payton.

Johnson was named named 5A All-State by the Louisiana Sports Writer’s Association. He was also chosen Daily Comet All-Bayou Region Player of the Year and District 6-5A MVP.

Johnson led Thibodaux to a runner-up finish in the state tournament as he averaged 16.8 points, 8.9 rebounds and 4.8 blocks per game.