Nate Johnson: A Dominant Force in College Basketball

Kansas State University Athletics has featured Nate Johnson, a senior transfer guard, in a series of "Get to Know" features on the newest members of the 2025-26 men's basketball team. Johnson, who is one of ten newcomers and five Division I transfers, brings a wealth of experience and accolades to the Wildcats. A standout player at Lakota East High School and Akron University, Johnson has been a consistent performer in both scoring and defense, earning multiple awards and breaking numerous records in the process.

Key Takeaways:

Johnson was a part of 60 wins in his last three seasons at Lakota East High School, including a 25-2 record and a regional final appearance in 2019-20.
He helped Akron University to 74 wins, three Mid-American Conference Championships, and two NCAA Tournament appearances under head coach John Groce.
Johnson became the first Akron player to be selected as both the MAC Player and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season in 2024-25.
In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 14.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.
Johnson was a finalist for the Lou Henson Award and selected to the NABC East District First Team honors.
He is among the top defensive players in the country, ranking fourth in the MAC in steals and seventh in defensive rebounds.
Johnson has scored over 800 points in his college career, connecting on 44.9% from the field and 78.5% from the free throw line.
He has also totaled 345 rebounds, 188 assists, 123 steals, and 21 blocks in 2,285 minutes played.

Statistics:

812 points scored in college career
295-of-657field goals made (44.9% shooting)
77-of-233 3-pointers made (33% shooting)
145-of-185 free throws made (78.5% shooting)
345 rebounds (3.8 rpg.)
188 assists (2.0 apg.)
123 steals (1.3 spg.)
21 blocks (0.2 bpg.)
2,285 minutes played

Sources:

Kansas State University Athletics release dated [no date provided]
Bio viewed at [no date provided]
Social media and online profiles