He used to play for the U.S. Now he's come to create something special

Ljubljana's basketball team Cedevita Olimpija has signed Jayce Johnson, a 28-year-old American center, to strengthen its roster under the basket. The agreement is for one season, according to information released by the club. Johnson joins after spending the previous season with Manisa in Turkey, where he averaged 9.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game over 30 matches. Standing at two meters and 13 centimeters tall, Johnson began his basketball journey at the University of Utah before completing his academic career at Marquette University. After turning professional, he gained experience playing in Romania, Italy, and the NBA G League developmental league, culminating in his time in Turkey. Johnson expressed excitement about joining Cedevita Olimpija, stating he believes he can contribute his knowledge, energy, and play to help the team. He also looks forward to creating something special with the club and the city of Ljubljana. Reflecting on his successful season with Manisa, he is eager to embrace this new challenge and all that life in Ljubljana has to offer. He is confident that the upcoming season will be successful. In addition to his club career, Johnson has represented the United States national team. He participated in two games during the qualification tournament for the Americas Cup in 2025, averaging 8.5 points and 10 rebounds per game. Chechu Mulero, sports director of Cedevita Olimpija, praised Johnson for bringing a dimension the team was seeking. Describing him as a physically strong center with a feel for rebounding and defending the rim, Mulero emphasized that Johnson’s energy, work ethic, and experience would make him a valuable member of the squad. He believes Johnson will integrate well into the team's system of play. Johnson's arrival marks a strategic move for Cedevita Olimpija, aiming to bolster their presence under the basket with a player who brings both physicality and international experience. His background includes collegiate play in the United States, followed by stints in European leagues and the NBA G League, which have prepared him for the demands of top-tier basketball. The signing comes amid a period of transition for the club, with the aim of building a competitive lineup capable of challenging for domestic and continental titles. Johnson's versatility and ability to perform in high-pressure situations were key factors in the decision to bring him on board. His previous performance in Turkey demonstrated his reliability in scoring and rebounding, making him a solid addition to the team's frontcourt. With his height and reach, Johnson is expected to provide a defensive anchor and a consistent inside presence. The integration of Johnson into the team's dynamics is anticipated to enhance the overall depth and competitiveness of Cedevita Olimpija. His experience in different basketball cultures and systems should aid in adapting quickly to the Slovenian league's style of play. As the new season approaches, the focus shifts to how effectively Johnson can adapt to his new environment and contribute to the team's objectives. His commitment to the club and belief in the potential success of the season underscore the mutual expectations between the player and the organization. Johnson's arrival adds another layer of international flavor to Cedevita Olimpija, reinforcing the club's reputation as a destination for players seeking to develop their careers in Europe. His background and achievements suggest he is ready to take on the challenges ahead and support the team's ambitions.