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Cam Johnson Has Shot to Make UNC Basketball History in San Francisco

The former two-year UNC basketball standout aims to outperform the two-time defending NBA 3-Point Contest champion and six others.

Matt Giles

Former UNC basketball forward Cam Johnson
Former UNC basketball forward Cam Johnson / Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
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No UNC basketball product has ever won the NBA 3-Point Contest since its inception back in 1986. Cam Johnson hopes to become the first Tar Heel to capture the crown in San Francisco's Chase Center on Saturday night.

ALSO READ: Five-Star Out West Names UNC Among Most Active Contenders

The Brooklyn Nets forward will square off against two-time defending NBA 3-Point Contest winner Damian Lillard (Milwaukee Bucks), as well as Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks), Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons), Darius Garland (Cleveland Cavaliers), Tyler Herro (Miami Heat), Buddy Hield (Golden State Warriors), and Norman Powell (Los Angeles Clippers).

Johnson's Starry 3-Point Contest quest airs on TNT and truTV at 8 p.m. ET Saturday.

Through his 39 outings this season, the 28-year-old Johnson's third campaign in Brooklyn, the 2019 late lottery pick is averaging 19.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists for the Nets (20-34). He's shooting 41.3 percent beyond the arc, delivering a career-high 3.1 deep splashes per game.

Cam Johnson is one of only six UNC basketball alums currently under contract in the NBA, along with a Nets teammate in center Day'Ron Sharpe, plus Chicago Bulls guard Coby White, Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony, San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes, and Spurs forward Harrison Ingram.

RANKED LATE-SEASON NORTH CAROLINA TAR HEELS ON SI REPORT CARDS:

1. RJ Davis

2. Ian Jackson

3. Seth Trimble

4. Elliot Cadeau

5. Ven-Allen Lubin

6. Drake Powell

7. Jalen Washington

8. Jae'Lyn Withers

9. Ty Claude

10. Cade Tyson

Stay tuned to North Carolina Tar Heels On SI for more UNC basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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