ACC for Johnson

Four-star prospect James Johnson formed a bond with the coaching staff on his unofficial visit during the summer. Then on his official visit this weekend he was convinced he had found his fit in the ACC.

The Virginia coaching staffs and the schools facilities won over Johnson, a 6-foot-9, 220-pound power forward from Wildomar (Calif.) Elsinore High School.

"James developed a deep relationship with the Coach Bennett, the assistants and the strength and conditioning coach," said Johnson's father Ted Johnson. "They really hit it off the first time he was on campus after the NBA Players camp. He only had a little time there with them, but after his second time on campus, he knew he didn't need to take any other visits."

Arizona and Oklahoma were expecting Johnson, the No. 99 ranked prospect in the Rivals150, to visit. California had just received a visit, and Arizona State and Oklahoma State were on his final school list as well.

The honesty, along with the expertise, of the Virginia coaching staff made a big impression on Johnson.

"Coach Bennett was very direct and honest with James," said Ted Johnson. "He said I can't promise you the NBA and can't promise you playing time, but I can promise you that you will be better when you leave than when you came. Coach Bennett has had success with other players like James, and he doesn't see why James can't succeed either. The staff, facilities and program are there to help James reach his max as a player."

The Virginia 2010 recruiting class was ranked No. 11 nationally with K.T. Harrell, Joe Harris and Will Regan. With the addition of Johnson, it will crack the top 10 under first year Virginia head coach Tony Bennett.