Boilermakers land promising center
With Purdue working to lock up commitments from some top in-state prospects, the Boilermakers took a first step that direction by securing a commitment from JaJuan Johnson of Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis, Ind.
"JaJuan is very happy and confident with his decision," said Coach Pat Mullin of the Spiece Central club about his 6-foot-10, 195-pound center. "He really liked Coach Painter, and that was the main factor in his decision.
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"He spent a lot of time with the players, and they said he would really enjoy playing for him."
Johnson, who will attend the Reebok ABCD Camp in July, chose Purdue over offers from Xavier, Butler, Indiana, Marquette and Cincinnati.
Although he plays behind Purdue target Matt Howard on Spiece Central, Johnson's enormous upside as a developing big man has him ranked as the No. 85 prospect in the Rivals150.
"JaJuan has great upside," said Mullin. "He is ready right now to compete defensively. He will be ready offensively as he gets stronger. He is going to keep improving and should be an impact player by his sophomore and junior years."
JaJuan Johnson scouting report:
Quite long and mobile, Johnson is a prospect full of promise. Tough to score over, he is also capable of rebounding outside of his area. Although his offense is behind his defense, the skill base is there. Johnson just needs to significantly increase his strength.