Recruiting Report: Josh Johnson
Maricopa High School moved into one of the top regions in 5A in the 2016-2017 season. Despite having success the year prior, many expected a dip. However, that did not happen as the group was able to make it to round of 16 with an upset over Deer Valley. Some of the key contributors to this success include new head coach Tony Fuller. Further, they received two transfers, Terrell and Darrell Handy-Johnson. Even though the aforementioned people played a huge role, none were more important that Josh Johnson, 5’7 PG 2018.
Josh Johnson High School
Johnson has been a three year starter for the group. Further, he was the leading scorer for the team at almost 20 ppg and led the team in assists as a sophomore. He followed up that up by leading the team in points, steals, and assists this past season. This strong performance earned his 2nd team all-region honors. With the Handy-Johnson brothers gone, Johnson will be relied upon even more as a senior.
Johnson mentioned that his goals for the upcoming season align directly with the team’s goals. He stated he just wants “to improve day by day, game by game” as a means of “trying to have consistency and winning”. In order for this team to have a chance at winning, Johnson will have to continue his strong performances.
Last year, it looked at times as if Johnson was a one man show. In fact, against Deer Valley, it was a mad rush to try to find a way to get the basketball out of his hands. However, Johnson, one way or another, found a way to get the ball in the 4th quarter and do whatever it took to win the game.
Johnson noted that at this point in time, Maricopa has not received any transfers like they did last year. However, he anticipates that the team will be just fine. Further, he mentioned that he expects “El Jones… to be playing a huge role in what we do”.
Josh Johnson College Interest
Despite playing in one of the top regions in the state and having a lot of success, Johnson has not received any college offers. However, he mentioned that he has received interest from a couple of schools. Further, he mentioned that Menlo, an NAIA DI team who participates in the GSAC, has reached out to him.
As far as what he is looking for in a college, he mentioned that he is “looking fora nice school”. Further, he wants a school “that is close to home”. Lastly, he carries a 3.8 GPA and wants to attend a school that is “outstanding in their academic programs”. Despite the interest in academics, Johnson is not sure what he would like to major in at this point.
He has grown close to his club program and stated that it has been “great” due to “getting to know the guys throughout the years”. Due to his strong connection to his club program, he stated that his “parents and family” as well as his high school and AAU coaches will assist in him making a final decision for college.
Josh Johnson College Projection
Despite his high school success, college coaches are constantly assessing if the talent will translate to the next level. At this point, the biggest question mark is his height. However, his success on the club scene should have answered that question. In addition, his strong performances in a region that sent a number of prospects to college last year should also validate his abilities.
Further, Johnson mentioned that he has improved his “scoring and overall game” the most this off-season. Currently, I see Johnson’s skill set translating well to the NAIA Division I or NCAA Division II levels.