Ben Johnson’s Signee Went from Big Ten Secret Weapon to National Sensation

Ben Johnson’s Signee Went from Big Ten Secret Weapon to National Sensation

Though Ben Johnson is no longer at the helm of Minnesota Golden Gophers basketball, his prized signee Dawson Garcia has soared to new heights under current head coach Niko Medved — transforming from a Big Ten secret weapon into a nationally recognized star.

 

 

 

 

Garcia’s recent 32-point outburst, including 27 points after halftime, powered Minnesota to a dramatic 64-61 victory over UCLA, highlighting his emergence as the team’s undeniable leader. The 6-foot-11 forward from Savage, Minnesota, has steadily grown into the program’s biggest name, showcasing elite scoring ability, rebounding, and clutch performance throughout the 2024-25 season.

After Medved replaced Johnson, Garcia’s game blossomed even further. Posting career-best averages of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, he’s become the engine driving Minnesota’s competitive edge in the Big Ten. His clutch plays — including a memorable game-winning halfcourt shot against No. 20 Michigan — have turned heads and raised his national profile.

 

 

 

 

 

Beyond his on-court exploits, Garcia earned the prestigious Big Ten Medal of Honor, the first Gophers men’s basketball player to do so since 1983, recognizing his excellence both athletically and academically. His invitation to the 2025 NBA G League Elite Camp further signals his potential at the professional level.

From a relatively under-the-radar recruit to a standout star, Dawson Garcia embodies the ideal of persistence and growth. As the Gophers prepare for the future under Medved’s guidance, Garcia’s transformation serves as a beacon of the program’s bright prospects ahead.