COLUMBIA, SC — South Carolina’s veteran guard Meechie Johnson revealed a significant personal hurdle this offseason, disclosing that he underwent major kidney surgery over the summer. He says the experience has reshaped his mindset, his preparation, and his outlook for the upcoming season.
A Hidden Struggle
Johnson kept the details of the surgery largely private until now, but in recent media availability he shared that what began as “persistent discomfort and fatigue” eventually led to a medical evaluation and then the decision to have the surgery. While he declined to specify the exact condition, he described the process as “unexpected, intense, but necessary.”
“It was a moment where I realized I couldn’t just push through,” said Johnson. “My health had to become priority. I’m grateful for the medical team who got me back.”
He emphasized that the surgery, while major, has gone smoothly so far. Johnson reported that he is now cleared for most basketball activities and is working his way back to full strength.
“I feel great,” he told reporters. “No pain, no lingering issues that hold me back. It’s been a hard road, but I’m focused on the comeback.”
Impact on the Gamecocks and What It Means
Johnson’s absence from normal summer workouts was noticeable to his teammates and coaches. Head coach Lamont Paris stepped in earlier in the summer to update the team on Johnson’s status, explaining that he had been held out of several drills due to the after-effects of surgery and recovery.
Now recovered, Johnson will return in a leadership capacity — both through his veteran presence and by example of resilience. His teammates say the revelation of his surgery has galvanized the group.
“Meechie’s battle puts things in perspective,” one assistant said. “When he takes the court, you’ll see a guy who earned every minute.”
For South Carolina, Johnson’s return adds major value. He has been one of their most consistent contributors — a guard capable of scoring, playmaking, and anchoring the team’s backcourt. His presence will be particularly important this season as the Gamecocks navigate a difficult schedule and look to build momentum early.
What’s Next
Johnson says his focus is now entirely on performance and contribution. His recovery timeline has put him slightly behind some of his peers, but he believes the extra time spent rehabilitating has made him stronger — physically and mentally.
“I know my body better now,” he said. “And I appreciate every chance I get to step on the floor.”
The Gamecocks open their season with high expectations, and Johnson’s journey from major surgery back to top-level play may inspire both his teammates and the fans. If he performs like he expects — and like his coach anticipates — his story could become one of the quiet triumphs of the 2025-26 college basketball season.
