Arkansas Business

This story is from the archives of ArkansasSports360.com.

Mike Anderson hadn’t interviewed for the Arkansas job when Joe Johnson publicly voiced his support for the coach. Johnson made it known he would get involved again with the Razorbacks if Anderson was hired.

Johnson, who plays for the Atlanta Hawks, is making good on that promise. He was back in Bud Walton Arena, along with other pro Razorbacks like Chicago Bulls guard Jannero Pargo, on Tuesday speaking with campers at Anderson’s youth basketball camp.

Having Anderson back in the fold was motivation for Johnson to return. He said he felt more comfortable coming around with Anderson on campus than he did with either Stan Heath or John Pelphrey.

“I would say there was [a disconnect.] Not really having that connection with Pelphrey and Heath, it was nothing personal, but I don’t think guys felt comfortable,” Johnson said. “With Coach Anderson back you’ll definitely see a lot more of us.”

Pargo agreed the camp appearance was just the beginning of their involvement. Both played for former Coach Nolan Richardson, who Anderson served as an assistant for 17 years.

Helping Anderson is important to former players, Pargo said.

“Mike got the job. We’re excited about that," Pargo said. "We’re looking forward to getting up here every summer, getting to know the players and just helping out as much as we can.”