Johnson assures fans that UNC tops his list

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UNC basketball fans are familiar with the name Brian Johnson, the 6-9, 245-pound big man from Maryland who is one of the top 15 players from the class of 2004. Recently, though, Tar Heel fans became worried when Johnson took an unofficial visit to archrival Duke.

That does not sit well with many Heels fans. Given UNC’s track record of not landing a top-flight big man lately, it can be quite scary since Johnson has said all along that he is a lifelong Carolina fan. Not to worry - Johnson still is a diehard Heels fan.

"I have said all along that other schools are going to have to show me why I should not go to North Carolina," Johnson said.

That said, many fans want to know if Duke made up any ground in the recruiting process for Johnson.

"I like Duke, but UNC is still by far and away my leader,” Johnson said. “I am going to be a future Tar Heel. Fans do not need to worry about that."

Johnson said he will make his final decision next summer.

"I am going to wait a few more months,” he said, “but I feel like UNC will still be my choice."

If you still need more proof that Johnson is a Tar Heel fan, consider this: On Dec. 8, Johnson’s mother, Donna Ingram, gave birth to a baby boy named Joshua. Brian was so excited about his new little brother, he bought him a tiny UNC outfit.

"Joshua is already a little Tar Heel, and may play for the Heels in about 18 years," Johnson said.

Questions or comments for Jason Parten? Contact him at parten@TarHeelIllustrated.com.