LAWRENCE — Elijah Johnson is still adjusting to his new role as the Kansas Jayhawks' lead guard. But before the regular season even begins, Johnson now has a new title: Sports Illustrated cover boy.

Johnson will appear on one of four regional covers when the magazine publishes its preview edition later this week. Johnson, a senior, averaged 10.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists last season while starting in 38 of 39 games. He also finished strong, helping KU to the Final Four and scoring 13 points against Kentucky in Kansas' national championship game loss.

Last season, Thomas Robinson appeared on SI's preview cover before earning All-American honors. Tyshawn Taylor also graced the cover during KU's NCAA Tournament run.

Indiana's Cody Zeller, Louisville's Peyton Siva and Syracuse's Brandon Triche appear on the other regional covers.