Sometimes, a picture is worth far more than 1000 words.

Less than two years after leading the Oregon Ducks to the Pac-12 Basketball Tournament crown in his hometown of Las Vegas, point-guard-turned-punt-returner Johnathan Loyd returned four Arizona punts for 61 yards Friday in the Pac-12 Football Championship game, becoming the first in conference history to play in and win both title games.

“That’s something special," Loyd said. "Not many people can say that; how many can say they played both sports at the highest levels? Just to have that success is a blessing.”

When Loyd first transitioned from the hardwood to the gridiron last spring, many figured he'd serve as a solid locker room presence and provide a spark in practice, but wouldn't see meaningful time on game days.

Over the last few months, Loyd has worked his way from scout-team newcomer, to garbage time spark plug, to now starting in one of the most intense roles on one of the best football teams in the country.

“I’m just glad the coaches gave me a chance to be on this team," he said, "They’re trusting me with this job, and I’m thankful. I just keep listening to coach Rad about the return technique and everything, and over time I’ve gotten good at fielding them and catching them.”

A prolific playmaker five years ago for Bishop Gorman High School, Loyd says he always knew he could make plays with the ball in his hand –Â and who could argue after watching him fly around the court for Dana Altman's basketball teams –Â but there were many little techniques he had to perfect before getting a serious look as a returner.

As for the picture above? It's reminiscent of Loyd celebrating his other Pac-12 title, the one he won in 2013 along with tournament MVP for his performance that week in Las Vegas. He won't win most valuable awards for this Oregon football team, but few could have imagined the success he's had before the season began.

Even those who figured he'd just be a positive presence on the sideline couldn't have been more right.

"I was just so happy for my teammate," Loyd said when shown the picture. "I’ve been going to war with these guys, and they deserve all of this.”