Interest in Johnson elevates after strong Nike EYBL stretch
HAMPTON, Va. – The market for four-star guard Keyontae Johnson is expanding after an impressive stretch on the Nike EYBL circuit.
Georgia Tech, Minnesota, Texas Tech, Providence and Virginia Tech are all pursing Johnson, who moved from Virginia to Bradenton, Fla., to attend IMG Academy.
The 6-foot-4 wing is explosive at the basket, an underrated passer and lockdown perimeter defender. He has a college-ready frame and is the type of player that can impact the game without having to score.
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IN HIS OWN WORDS
Georgia Tech: “I like how they play and they keep the momentum going with how they play and practice. I think that would be a good fit for me.”
Virginia Tech: “I like their underclassmen and how they let their guys play early on. Plus, how they fast break and get up and down the floor.”
Providence: “They try to do a two-and-out deal. They get their guys to the next level.”
Minnesota: “They have been getting better year by year so I like how they have improved.”
Texas Tech: “They said I could come in and start right away since all of their senior guards would be gone by then.”
WHAT'S NEXT?
Johnson will finish his final few months on the travel circuit running with the Boo Williams Summer League 17-under team. When it comes time to commit, look for a fall decision.
“I want to cut my list once my dad gets back from the Navy in August sometime,” he said. “I want to decide in September or October, at the latest.”
RIVALS' REACTION
Johnson should be ready to step in and immediately help a program once his college clock begins in the winter of 2018. Physically, the top-150 prospect is more developed compared and thanks to his versatility on both ends of the floor, Johnson should become a stat-sheet stuffer.