Larry Johnson to Return to McNeese State Cowboys for Sophomore Season

Star guard who broke school freshman scoring record will stay with team after NCAA Tournament appearance

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:14pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Larry Johnson, a standout guard who transferred to McNeese State from Creighton, has announced he will return to the Cowboys for his sophomore season. Johnson broke the school's freshman scoring record last year, averaging 17.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game as McNeese won the Southland Conference title and made the NCAA Tournament.

Why it matters

Johnson's decision to stay at McNeese is a major boost for the program, as he was a key part of the team's success last season. His return gives the Cowboys a proven scorer and leader as they look to build on their third straight NCAA Tournament appearance.

The details

Johnson, a 6-foot-4 guard, transferred to McNeese State after redshirting his first year at Creighton. In his freshman season with the Cowboys, he broke the school's freshman scoring record previously held by NBA veteran Joe Dumars. Johnson averaged 17.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, helping McNeese to a 28-6 record and a third consecutive Southland Conference championship.

  • Johnson announced his decision to return on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • The 2026-27 season will be Johnson's sophomore year at McNeese State.

The players

Larry Johnson

A 6-foot-4 guard who transferred to McNeese State from Creighton, Johnson broke the school's freshman scoring record last season and was named the Southland Conference Freshman of the Year.

Bill Armstrong

The head coach of the McNeese State Cowboys, who led the team to a 28-6 record and third straight NCAA Tournament appearance in his first season.

Joe Dumars

A former NBA player who held the McNeese State record for most points scored by a freshman, which Johnson broke last season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Larry had an incredible freshman season for us. Breaking Joe Dumars' freshman scoring record was an amazing accomplishment which speaks volumes to his talent and work ethic. From day one when he walked on campus, we believed Larry had the potential to be a special player and he certainly did not disappoint.”

— Bill Armstrong, Head Coach, McNeese State Cowboys

“I will play where Coach Bill is at. I like playing for him.”

— Larry Johnson

What’s next

With Johnson returning, the Cowboys will look to bring back most of their core group from last season's NCAA Tournament team. Senior center Jerrell Colbert has requested an extra year of eligibility, and other key players like Garvey Dual and Jacob Cole are considering returning as well.

The takeaway

Larry Johnson's decision to stay at McNeese State for his sophomore season is a major win for the program, as he was a driving force behind their recent success. His return gives the Cowboys a proven scorer and leader as they aim to make a fourth straight NCAA Tournament appearance.