Clemson Men’s Basketball Adds Veteran Transfer from UAB Blazers

Butta Johnson announced his commitment to Clemson’s men’s basketball team on Sunday via social media with a simple post saying, “GRIT” followed by a Tiger emoji.

Johnson, who spent the 2024-25 season at UAB, averaged 8.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, 68 assists, and 31 steals over 37 games, including 21 starts. He ranked fifth on the team in scoring and played nearly 27 minutes per game. During his sophomore season in 2023-24, Johnson averaged 11.2 points and 1.7 assists, shooting 43% from the field. He also led the team with 56 made 3-pointers and recorded 20 games with double-digit scoring.

Johnson will join a growing Clemson roster, which has already added three other players this offseason: junior forwards Nick Davidson (formerly of Nevada) and R.J. Godfrey (formerly of Georgia), and forward Carter Welling (formerly of Utah Valley). Godfrey is a returnee to Clemson, having transferred to Georgia after starting his college career with the Tigers.

Clemson will retain a few players, including guard Dillon Hunter, forward Dallas Thomas, and guard Ace Buckner. The Tigers also expect to welcome their three new signees: guard Zac Foster (Woodward Academy, Atlanta), forward Chase Thompson (Alexandria Area, Glenwood), and forward/center Trent Steinour (Lake Norman, Mooresville).

The team has seen some talent leave through the transfer portal, including junior forward Chauncey Wiggins (now at Florida State) and guard Del Jones (now at Radford). Clemson finished last season 27-7 but was eliminated early in the NCAA Tournament, losing 69-67 to McNeese State. Coach Brad Brownell, Clemson’s all-time winningest coach, is set for a contract extension despite the early exit.