Prospect Spotlight: Jonny Hillman (2019)
Photo Credit: idahostatesman.com
A high hoops IQ and a good-sized frame make Genesis Prep’s Jonny Hillman one of Idaho’s most sought-after guards.
The 6-foot-2 floor-general is an established sharpshooter, who’s been working the past several seasons not only racking up state titles, but vastly improving his game.
“Coming into high school, I was a strong shooter, that’s what I was known for. Then I realized that I’d have to work on more of a mid-range and a layup package,” said Hillman, who continued to develop his body as he heads into his senior season.
“I think I’ve been growing a lot of strength and versatility this spring. I’m now someone who can play around the rim with bigger players. I know strength as a guard is really helpful, so I’ve been in the gym, really serious about working out.”
Hillman has been a captain at Genesis Prep since his freshman season. Last winter, as a junior, he led his team to a second consecutive state title. He was one of the state’s best scorers in the process.
“We just wanted to be better last year than we were the year before, and I think we accomplished that,” said Hillman. “What we pride ourselves on is being a family, and we did that this year, and that’s why we played so well.”
After winning his second title with the Jaguars, Hillman went into his 17U offseason with Eastern Washington Elite’s top 17U squad.
Since then, recruitment has been starting to pick up for him; he’s heard from Eastern Oregon, College of Idaho, Cal State University at Monterey Bay, and Lewis and Clark.
It’s all just NAIA and D2 interest right now, no official offers yet.
“I’m just putting my options on the table and not making any big decision yet at the moment,” said Hillman.
With a big July ahead of him, followed by a senior season where he could conceivably nab his third straight state title, Hillman has a lot to look forward to.
“I’m looking to grow my game more and playing confident, especially knowing college coaches will be there watching me,” he said.
“I’m not super focused on recruitment right now, I believe that God has a plan for my life, and whatever happens happens. So I’m just kind of going with the flow, working as hard as I can to be the best person I can be.”