‘We’re not skipping steps’: Beard on Johnson’s recovery, Case’s Ole Miss legacy

Long-time Ole Miss basketball staffer Win Case departed the program in the off-season to become the associate head coach at Southern Miss under Jay Ladner. Case had been with Ole Miss since 2018, serving as the lead assistant under former head coach Kermit Davis and acting as interim head coach for the final five games of the 2023 season after Davis's dismissal. Under current head coach Chris Beard, Case held an off-court role as a special assistant. Beard praised Case's "great" work at Ole Miss, expressing happiness for his opportunity to return to full-time on-court coaching at Southern Miss while acknowledging Case's significant contributions to the program.

Meanwhile, Louisville transfer guard Koren Johnson is currently recovering from a labrum injury that limited him to just two games last season. Four weeks into Ole Miss's summer program, Johnson is working separately with trainers, estimated at around 80% health by both himself and Coach Beard. Beard emphasized a cautious rehab approach, stating Johnson's return is a matter of "when," not "if," and noting Johnson's positive progress, including weight loss and strength gains. Johnson is expected to be cleared for full contact in August and fully healthy by the season opener in November.

Beard expressed strong optimism about Johnson's potential fit and impact. He described Johnson as a competitive combo guard with a point-guard mentality, capable of driving and passing, understanding ball movement, and scoring. Beard highlighted Johnson's untapped competitive drive and potential to become a "great defensive player" who takes being scored on personally. He sees significant upside if Johnson can reach his best form within the team system, embracing values like discipline and unselfishness. Johnson stated he was drawn to Ole Miss by Beard's plan to utilize him similarly to former standout guard Sean Pedulla.