Recruiting Report: Zane Johnson (2018)
After an outstanding past two season with East Marshall — one of 2A’s best teams last season — versatile and springy 6-foot-5 forward Zane Johnson could be considered a sleeper in Iowa’s 2018 class.
With decent size, great athleticism and a desire to continue and diversify his skill-set, Johnson could certainly be a target for D3 and NAIA coaches.
Right now, there’s just one in-state NAIA that has reached out to him.
“I’ve had one school contact me, and that’s Briar Cliff,” said Johnson. “I hope there’s a lot more coaches that will be looking at me when we go to Las Vegas this weekend. And hopefully I can pick up some interest during school ball as well.”
Already with an ability to play above the rim, and also to step out and hit a 3-ball, Johnson says he’s working on his ball-handling to make himself a more complete offensive threat.
“Some of my strengths are driving to the basket more than anything. I’d like to be a better shooter, I’ve been working on that in the offseason,” said Johnson, who hit 13 3s at a 33 percent clip last season.
“Ball-handling is probably the main thing I’m working on. That will help me out with getting into the lane, and other than that, my 3-point shot is something I’ve been working on.”
This offseason, Johnson has been playing with one of Iowa’s best 17U teams, Iowa Intensity. Where he’s been able to to benefit from strong guard play — a lot like he does during his high school season.
“On the Intensity, there’s a lot more playmakers, and there’s a lot more opportunity get involved because of all of the playmakers,” said Johnson, who will be in Las Vegas this weekend with the team.
“It’s just fun playing with other people other than your actual school team. But at the same time it’s fun having some of my school team in Intensity as well.”