Kansas State’s win on Sunday had to be a little sweeter for wing Keyontae Johnson.
Johnson was playing with the Florida Gators in December 2020 when the wing collapsed on the court while walking back from a time out.
Johnson was rushed to the hospital and stayed in a coma for three days.
Now he’s going to the Sweet 16 following No. 3 Kansas 75-69 over No. 6 Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament on Sunday.
Johnson had 13 points, four rebounds and three assists in the win over Kentucky.
He stayed on afterwards with the Gators while recovering before transferring to Kansas State for his final season of eligibility.
And after having the chance to become healthy again, the 22-year-old is back exactly where he wants to be – going deep in March Madness and drawing buzz for the upcoming NBA draft.
“It just goes to show the belief in myself and just working hard to prove myself that has gotten me to this point,” Johnson said to Yahoo Sports before the NCAA Tournament.
“Everything happens for a reason and it’s all on God’s timing. I love this game and will never take it for granted. It’s the best feeling in the world, playing with my teammates, and I’m ready to go out and compete every night and try and win a championship.”
The wing has made a massive impact for Kansas State, putting up 17.5 points and grabbing 7.0 rebounds a game this season, all while shooting 40.5 percent from behind the arc.
He’s keeping it up even on college sports’ biggest stage, averaging 15.5 points per game in the NCAA Tournament.
The wing has also been clutch, hitting a dagger step-back 3-pointer against Kentucky with less than two minutes remaining.
Johnson’s efforts in his final season has garnered him plenty of attention. He earning first-team Big 12 honors and the conference’s Newcomer of the Year.
The wing is projected as an early second-round pick in mock drafts, with the chance to go higher as he continues his stellar play.
“I’ve had to be patient through everything,” Johnson said. “I’m just trusting the process.”