Show Notes

EP96: THE MAKING (and re-making) OF LARRY JOHNSON PART 6: The UNLV Days

Episode Summary

In this fun and informative episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks takes an in-depth look at the college career of basketball legend Larry Johnson. As we reach part six of our nine-part docuseries, “The Making and Remaking of Larry Johnson,” Brooks captures not just the milestones, but the spirit and resilience of a player who overcame significant hurdles to rise to fame.

Larry Johnson’s path from the Dixon Circle housing projects of Dallas to NCAA stardom at UNLV is nothing short of inspirational. This episode highlights Johnson’s time at Odessa College, where he shone under coach Dennis Helms, and his subsequent rise to prominence at UNLV despite the backdrop of controversy and sanctions. Brooks dives into statistics and key moments, recounting the explosive playing style that made the 1990 Championship game against Duke an unforgettable clash of cultures. With personal reflections and riveting recounts, this episode is a beacon for anyone looking to draw motivation from a true sports icon.

Key Takeaways:

• Larry Johnson’s Early Years: Larry Johnson came from challenging beginnings in the Dixon Circle housing projects of Dallas and overcame academic hurdles to play at Odessa College.

• Success at Odessa College: Under Coach Dennis Helms, Larry became the only player in history to win back-to-back NJCAA Division One Player of the Year awards, posting record-breaking numbers.

• UNLV Dominance: Despite NCAA sanctions and media scrutiny, Johnson led the UNLV Running Rebels to a dominating NCAA Championship win against Duke in 1990, followed by an undefeated regular season in 1990-91.

• Inspiration and Resilience: Johnson’s relentless work ethic and personal perseverance have become a source of inspiration, extending beyond athletics into the lives of those who follow his journey.

• Future Episodes: Toby Brooks teases upcoming interviews with Larry Johnson’s agent, George Bass, and perhaps Johnson himself, marking a climactic end to this compelling docuseries.

Notable Quotes:

1. “Under Helms’ leadership, Larry attended study tables regularly, focusing on his grades, and over time, the problems that had plagued his admittance to SMU as a high school senior weren’t a problem anymore.” – Toby Brooks

2. “It’s been said you should never meet your heroes because inevitably their humanity will let you down and disappoint you. And while that very well may be the case, I will say simply by the example of his sheer power of will of excellence on the floor and resilience in the face of adversity, a hero like Larry was exactly what I needed.” – Toby Brooks