Prospect Spotlight: Caleb Johnson (2020)
The Curley Friars captured their first MIAA B Conference Championship since 2001 on Sunday afternoon with a win over St. John’s Catholic Prep. The Friars establish control from the early goings and senior Caleb Johnson paced them throughout to eventually hold on and win. The 6-foot-1 combo guard finished with a game-high 20 points and capped off what was a productive senior campaign.
Last season Johnson was featured more off the ball with the Friars’ roster make up, but this season’s team allowed him to play both on and off the ball. He shows improvement in both roles.
“Last year I was more of a shooting guard and I knew this year I’d have to step up and take over as a point guard,” Johnson said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself and now I’m the all-time leading scorer at Curley. I knew I had to put these guys on my back this year and help get us to a championship.”
Even in the pressures that come with a championship game atmosphere, Johnson looked naturally in operating off the bounce. He’s a tough match up because of his ability to break you down off the dribble and score efficiently from mid-range or get to the bucket. He hit multiple step back jumpers against St. John’s after the defender did a nice job of staying in front of him for the initial 2-to-3 seconds. Shots like that can be demoralizing for a defender.
Johnson’s improved strength came in handy this season, allowing him to finish around the rim through contact and to have the legs late in the game to hit those step-back jump shots.
“I feel a lot stronger this year compared to last year,” Johnson said as he reflected on the most improved parts of his game. “That and just learning how to get my teammates involved more from the point guard spot.”
Johnson told Prep Hoops that Assumption, Cal U (PA), Wheeling Jesuit as well as others have been reaching out to him. He hasn’t went on any visits but with the season over, is planning to schedule in the near future. Johnson has no timetable in making a decision.