Mavericks' Morez Johnson Jr. explains reason behind new jersey number
After wearing No. 21 for much of his basketball career, Morez Johnson Jr. will have a new look on the court, starting next season with the Mavericks.
Morez Johnson Jr., the 6-foot-9 forward selected by the Dallas Mavericks in the first round, has revealed the significance behind his new jersey number. After wearing No. 21 for much of his basketball career, Johnson will don No. 14 with his new team starting next season. Johnson explained his choice during his introductory press conference on June 25, stating that No. 21 was taken by Daniel Gafford, his new Mavericks teammate.
Johnson's parents share the same birthday, the seventh, with one born in June and the other in October. Johnson decided on No. 14 as a tribute to his parents, noting that three 7s are considered good luck in basketball, and he couldn't wear 21, which was already occupied. Johnson wore No. 12 as his senior year in high school due to 21's unavailability, and chose No. 14 after that, without a specific reason other than it suited him.
During his sophomore season at Michigan, Johnson helped the Wolverines secure their second national title while wearing No. 21. Last season, he was a second-team All-Big Ten selection, averaging 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game. Johnson's impressive performance, including a 27-point, eight-rebound game in the NBA summer league, has made him a high-profile prospect.
He expressed excitement about returning to his former Michigan coach, Dusty May, and the Mavericks' anticipation for his potential on the court.
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