Ben Johnson Found a Future Star in True Freshman Cam Christie

The Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s basketball team has commenced its 2023-24 season and they’re off to a modest 5-2 record, early on. They’ve beaten most of the teams they should but nobody really knows who they are or how they will be able to hang in the Big Ten this season.

But that will all change on Sunday, when they begin conference play vs the Ohio State Buckeyes, who are 6-1 on the season, including two games played, and one victory (Alabama), over top-25 opponents.

Related: Can 2023-24 Minnesota Gophers Make the NCAA Tournament?

Cam Christie: Future Minnesota Gophers star

One positive development in their first 7 games, though, Ben Johnson may have found himself a future star in true freshman guard, Cam Christie. Despite coming off the bench, Christie is getting 22.5 minutes per game, a number that will continue to rise as the season goes on.

In his Gopher debut earlier this season, Christie announced his arrival by dropping 18 points (4 of 6 from 3PT) to go along with 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals.

Cam Christie’s first outing:

18 points
5-8 FG
4-6 3FG
3 rebs
4 assists
2 steals pic.twitter.com/QZswRd3oXB

— ᗩᑎT ᗯᖇIGᕼT (@itsAntWright) November 11, 2023

In Minnesota’s most recent matchup vs New Orleans, Cam was even better, leading the Gophers in scoring with 20 points (4 of 6 from 3PT again) to go with 4 assists and a block. On the season, the Arlington Heights, IL native is averaging 11 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 53.8% from deep. 

Cam Christie: NBA Potential

Yes, it’s only been 6 games, no, there won’t be any apologies for saying Christie has serious NBA potential. Christie has been getting recognized for his shooting talent, and his effort on the defensive side of the ball. Great shooter + Great Defense = NBA.

Related: Gophers MBB Surprisingly Impressive to Start Season

Cam Christie is the best defender in the Big Ten pic.twitter.com/ttBaZZ4FtF

— Kendal Shell 🏁 (@KendalShell) November 17, 2023

Options for Christie after this season:

Christie will definitely have suitors interested in him after what’s sure to be an incredible freshman season and that could very well include NBA teams. But Ben Johnson & Co can’t concern themselves with that right now.

He’s coaching for his job. Cam Christie can help him win games in 2023-24 and that’s all he needs to be worried about. If Johnson’s true freshman phenom can help him keep his job, then he can worry about backing up the NIL Brinks truck down the road.