Prospect Spotlight: LJ Johnson (2019)
Kenwood 2019 shooting guard LJ Johnson is returning to Chicago after spending his sophomore season out of state. The strong and athletic wing is incredibly tough. He plays with an all-out motor on both ends of the floor. Offensively he is best getting downhill and attacking the hoop where he finishes with his strength through contact. Finishes very well at the rim. Defensively he gets after it with his tenacity and anticipation. One area that I saw growth since we last saw him was his passing making a couple sweet dishes. Love his competitiveness and heart that he brings to the table. Johnson is a low-major prospect right now.
He spoke with PHI about playing away from Chicago last season.
“I went to prep school out in Vegas at Trinity International. It was a nice little set up. I thought it was going to be a good fit for me, but it wasn’t so I went to a school in Houston. It wasn’t a good fit for me so I came back to play Chicago basketball.”
Johnson is ready to play with a new group at Kenwood, but he is already familiar with them.
“Getting to play with Artese Stapleton and a team that I have played with when I was little. I am looking forward to getting back to Chicago.”
Where did his game improve over the last year?
“Faster. My defense is where it has always been. My shot is getting better being able to shoot off the catch and off the dribble. I am the same energy guy that will attack anyone.”
He is running with Young & Reckless on the circuit this spring and summer. What is he trying to accomplish with them.
“Bringing out the competitive side out of the guys. Playing some top teams and hopefully beating them.”
Nothing much going on with recruiting at this stage, but expect Midwest low-majors to get involved soon.