Auburn’s Chaney Johnson exudes confidence while talking about facing Cooper Flagg and Duke: “Something to get excited about”
Chaney Johnson was brimming with confidence ahead of Auburn's showdown against Duke on Wednesday. During a press conference on December 2, the senior forward was quizzed about the challenge of playing Cooper Flagg, the top prospect in the Class of 2025, who has made an incredible start to his college basketball career with the Blue Devils.
Johnson acknowledged Flagg's talent, sharing he was keen to face him and the Blue Devils at the Cameron Indoor Stadium.
"Of course, they have Flagg, projected number 1 draft pick. So, it's something to get excited about. But, treat every game the same. I'm going with the same focus as if I'm playing North Alabama. Like, knowing I'm going to have to make sure I do what I got to do regardless, so just going in there, trying to handle business, pretty much," said Johnson. (3:18)
Flagg has emerged as the Blue Devils' biggest threat in their opening seven games. Across those games, he has averaged a team-leading 15.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.4 steals, leading them to five wins.
Chaney Johnson and Auburn enjoy fine start to the season
Chaney Johnson has enjoyed a fine start to his senior season at Auburn. Although he is yet to make a start this season, the forward has averaged 10.6 points and 6.0 rebounds in 23.4 minutes across the opening seven games.
His fellow senior Johni Broome has been the Tigers' top performer this season. Across their opening seven games, Broome has averaged 20.7 points, 12.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists and comes to Durham on the back of five consecutive double-doubles.
The Tigers have strengthened their credentials as contenders for the national championship, winning all seven games this season. They are also 3-0 against ranked opponents, scoring wins over the Houston Cougars, the Iowa State Cyclones and the North Carolina Tar Heels.
No. 9 Duke are 1-1 against ranked opponents heading into their game with No. 2 Auburn. They suffered a narrow 72-77 loss to the Kentucky Wildcats in the State Farm Champions Classic and scored a 69-55 win over the Arizona Wildcats on the road. The game between the Tigers and the Blue Devils will commence at 9:15 PM ET.