High Point's Chase Johnston aims to become this year's March Madness breakout star

The senior guard has taken an unprecedented approach, attempting only 3-pointers this season.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:56pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Chase Johnston, a senior guard for High Point University, has taken an unconventional approach to his final college basketball season. In 32 regular-season games, Johnston did not make a single two-point shot, attempting 136 shots and making 64 of them - all from beyond the arc. While he may not be expected to drop 30 points on a top seed, Johnston's unique playing style has created an intriguing storyline heading into the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

Why it matters

Johnston's 3-point-only approach is highly unusual in college basketball, and could make him a breakout star in the NCAA Tournament if he gets hot from deep. His story evokes memories of Oakland's Jack Gohlke, who went viral in 2024 for his surprise scoring outburst. If Johnston can replicate that kind of performance, it would captivate fans and cement his place in March Madness lore.

The details

In his six-year college career, Johnston has played for three different programs - Stetson, Florida Gulf Coast, and now High Point. This season, the 22.1 minutes per game senior has taken his 3-point shooting to new heights, connecting on 48.5% of his 132 attempts from beyond the arc. Johnston's commitment to only shooting 3-pointers is unprecedented, as he did not make a single 2-point field goal all year.

  • Johnston began his college career at Stetson in the 2020-21 season.
  • He transferred to Florida Gulf Coast for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons.
  • Johnston joined High Point University for the 2024-25 season and is now in his final year of eligibility.

The players

Chase Johnston

A senior guard at High Point University who has taken an unprecedented approach, attempting only 3-pointers this season.

Jack Gohlke

A player for Oakland University who went viral in the 2024 NCAA Tournament for his surprise scoring outburst.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Being the next Gohlke could come from a high-scoring output, but could also be someone who has a quirky aspect to their game. Enter High Point's Chase Johnston.”

— Teddy Ricketson, Author

What’s next

If High Point earns a spot in the 2026 NCAA Tournament, all eyes will be on Chase Johnston to see if he can replicate the kind of breakout performance that made Jack Gohlke a viral sensation in 2024.

The takeaway

Chase Johnston's unorthodox approach to only shooting 3-pointers this season has created an intriguing storyline heading into the NCAA Tournament. If he can get hot from deep and lead High Point to an upset, he could cement his place as this year's March Madness breakout star in the mold of Oakland's Jack Gohlke.