Princeton men's basketball was in desperate need of a new captain. Yesterday afternoon, Director of Athletics Gary Walters '67 officially introduced one with a proven track record at the helm — the only three-time captain in Princeton basketball history, Sydney Johnson '97. In a press conference at Princeton Stadium, a new era of Tiger basketball commenced as Walters presented Johnson as the 28th head coach of the storied program.
"Everybody says, 'Why Sydney?' " Walters said, acknowledging that there were several talented candidates for the job. "The answer is transparent. His personal qualities and leadership abilities led us to the conclusion that he is the right man to lead this program forward."
In his opening remarks, Walters praised Johnson for his accomplished career as a player and as an assistant coach. In addition to captaining the famous 1996 Princeton team that toppled UCLA in the NCAA Tournament, Johnson was the 1997 Ivy League Player of the Year. After college, the standout point guard played professionally in Europe for seven years. When he returned to the United States, he spent three years at Georgetown as an assistant under former Princeton head coach John Thompson III '88.
Looking backward, moving forward
During the conference, the 32-year-old Johnson looked to the past as well as the future, stressing both the importance of the Princeton tradition and his eagerness to begin his duties as head coach.
Full of nostalgia and pride for the days he spent in a Tiger uniform, Johnson offered thanks to the many people who mentored him along the way — including the man he replaces, Joe Scott '87.
"[Scott's] contribution as a player, as an assistant coach and as a head coach will always be remembered," Johnson said. "I know that he loves this University and loves this program. I am thankful for his impact on me."
After briefly reflecting on his past accomplishments, Johnson announced some of his plans for the future of Princeton basketball.
While he has yet to make final decisions on his coaching personnel, Johnson did reveal that Tony Newsom, currently second assistant coach, will be his top deputy.
His entire speech was characterized by an excitement to establish a strong bond with his players — something he feels will contribute to the overall success of the program.
"The Xs and Os are important, but I want to earn our players' trust," Johnson said. "I want them to believe in myself and each other. Results will follow from that."
Teamwork part of Johnson's playbook
Johnson fondly remembered the bond he shared with his former Princeton teammates, emphasizing that the trust they had in each other was a key factor in their success on the court.
He praised the three departing seniors — guard Edwin Buffmire and forwards Justin Conway and Luke Owings — as a present day example of his definition of teamwork and unity.
"Watching them [play], I realize that they get it," Johnson said. "The heart and desire they put out on the floor, the way they carry themselves. It made me proud to play here and be connected to them."
According to Johnson, establishing a connection with his players will be an integral part of his job as head coach. Above all, he wants his players to believe in their ability to make plays.
"At the end of the day, your players define what happens on the court," Johnson said.
Johnson had a good first impression of the Tiger squad when he met with them Friday afternoon.
"I love what we have in our locker room right now," Johnson said. "I want to work with our guys. We are Princeton basketball. They understand that, and that's very important to me."
The Johnson Experience
When asked about his lack of experience as a head coach, Johnson pointed to the invaluable knowledge he gained under Thompson as testimony that he is well-qualified for the job. As an assistant at Georgetown, Johnson had considerable freedom in helping Thompson guide the team to its berth in the 2007 Final Four.
Johnson also shares something very important with his players — the experience of being a scholar-athlete at Princeton.
"I have walked the walk," Johnson said. "My experience here [as a player] will certainly help me relate to what our young men are going through."
Johnson's enthusiasm to show why he is the right man for the job stood out during the hour-long press conference. He credited legendary coach Carril, whom Johnson played under during his first three years at Princeton, with instilling in him this sense of pride and a drive to succeed.
By creating a strong bond with his players and emphasizing the value of teamwork and confidence, Johnson hopes to restore Princeton basketball to its former glory.
"I really love coaching, and I really love [establishing] that bond," Johnson said. "I understand how important and special it is to be here. That's going to drive me as much as anything."
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