Bruton praises 'dominant' Johnson

Game recognises game, and Adelaide coach and Australian basketball legend CJ Bruton has paid tribute to departing 36er Daniel Johnson.

Bruton won six NBL titles across an over 20-year career. He won back-to-back titles with Sydney in 2004 and 2005, before heading to Brisbane and playing a key role in the Bullets’ historic title and 21-game winning streak.

He then won three titles in a row with the New Zealand Breakers between 2011 and 2013.

Johnson boasts an incredible record too, averaging almost 15 points and seven rebounds a game across 414 NBL appearances. 

He's a three-time NBL First Team member. 

RELATED: 36ers to honour modern day club legend

Bruton and Johnson also crossed paths on the court, with both having been active players in the competition from 2008-2014.

“I think only a few Australians I know to be at his sort of level of play and also achieve what he has achieved,” Bruton said.

“I think everyone will say the same thing. He’s a great guy on and off the floor and he’s a competitor.

“To be able to dominate at a high rate, where most imports dominate that position for a long time, he’s a special human.”

The end of Johnson’s Adelaide tenure does not signal the end of his playing career. The seven-time club best and fairest is set to continue playing overseas. He’s already completed stints in Puerto Rico, Poland, New Zealand, Iran, Argentina and Japan whilst a member of the 36ers.

Bruton says the decision for Johnson to move on has been made with one eye turned towards the future.

“As tough as this is, we think this is the best move for the club,” he said.

“We think the time is now for the next generation to step up and make their mark in this league.”

Adelaide’s first official game in over a decade without Johnson in the team will come at the upcoming NBL Blitz.

For more information on the Blitz, click here.

The 36ers will open their season on Friday, September 29 against the Brisbane Bullets.