Wade Cheers Godson as Texas Opens With 50-Point Win

Wade, a three-time NBA champion, sat courtside as Johnson made his first regular-season appearance at the Moody Center. Afterward, Johnson said Wade’s presence meant a great deal and described the moment as one he had anticipated since transferring to Texas.

Johnson scored 18 points in 25 minutes, making five of eight shots, including three of five from beyond the arc. He also recorded five assists, three boards and two steals during his Texas debut.

The Longhorns made 13 three-pointers at a 50% rate, with six players connecting from long range. Joe Sterling led Texas with four successful threes on six attempts. The team also posted 22 assists and outrebounded Chicago State 44-22.

Johnson played his freshman season at Colorado, where he faced Big 12 competition. Texas coach Sean Miller has said the guard’s age during that season—18—left room for further growth.

Another family moment drew attention during the opener: former NFL player Marcus Spears was shown on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown watching his son, Marcus Spears Jr., walk through the tunnel before the game. Texas, which reached the Sweet 16 last season, is scheduled to host Gardner-Webb on Thursday.