Keyontae Johnson explains always having positive energy in games

No one has ever said Keyontae Johnson has ever lacked energy on the court. He plays every minute as if it could be his last — and rightfully so.

Johnson’s recovery story about his collapse on the court and subsequent return has been well documented and it’s paying off for him big time. One win separates Johnson’s Kansas State Wildcats from the Final Four and you can tell how much fun he and his teammates are having every time they step onto the court.

“I just always try to keep positive energy around me, always let the guys see I’m happy. I can’t be blessed enough to be here, so just trying to enjoy life and enjoy the moment,” Johnson said ahead of the Elite Eight. “You’re only in college for so long. So everybody that comes back to K-State or previously at Florida always told me, to enjoy college life here because it’s going to be gone.

“Basketball was almost taken away from me, so I go out there to have fun and show my teammates the love and joy that I have for them.”

Johnson has made the most of his second chance at basketball this season, averaging a team-high 17.7 points and 6.9 rebounds. He’s coming off a 22-point, 6-rebound game against Michigan State in the 98-93 overtime thriller in the Sweet 16.

His efforts, alongside Markquis Nowell‘s record-setting 20-points, 19-assist performance willed the ‘Cats to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2018. Florida Atlantic (34-3), who upset Tennessee 62-55 on Thursday, await Kansas State with a chance to win the East region and advance to the Final Four.

Nowell’s stellar showing broke the NCAA single game assist record for a tournament game since the stat became official in 1984. His 19 assists which broke the previous record set by UNLV’s Mark Wade, who had 18 assists in the 1987 National Semifinals.

“All glory to God man,” Nowell said after the win on the TBS broadcast. “He gave me these gifts and talents. I’m just glad I get the platform to showcase them. I have a ton of faith. These guys work so hard. My coaching staff worked so hard, and we just love each other. I can’t say this enough.”

Kansas State and FAU will tip-off Elite Eight action Saturday evening. Coverage will begin on TBS 6 p.m. ET as the Wildcats ride into the matchup in Madison Square Garden as 1.5-point favorites over the winningest team in college basketball this season.