Johnson coming off strong season

The No. 118 ranked player in the class of 2006 Cory Johnson is coming off a tremendous season where he averaged 27 points and 9 rebounds although his Duluth East (Minn.) High School squad suffered a season ending opening round upset in the playoffs. Johnson, a 6-foot-7, 213-pound small forward, now turns his attention the summer circuit and his recruitment.

"I have so many schools that I'm looking at, it's hard for me to narrow it down right now," said Johnson. "I want to wait and see what happens this summer. This is a big summer for me and my teammates and were very excited. It would be nice to be done with the recruiting process before my senior season starts."

Johnson, who plays with the Howard Pulley AAU club with 2006 stand outs Isaiah Dahlman and Bryce Webster, has already taken unofficial visits to Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Iowa State and Marquette. Out of that group of six, all but Wisconsin and Illinois have offered.

Going into the AAU last season, Johnson projected as an undersized power forward with average athleticism. Throughout the summer, Johnson more and more displayed the offensive skills of a small forward. Although his range was not quite three-point range, he knocked down the 17-footer, handled the ball well and passed it well. At the Nike All-American camp he even served some spot duty at the point guard position.

Johnson only built upon his summer success during this high school season.

"I think I had the best season I've ever had," he said. "I feel like I'm shooting the ball better, finishing better, and I felt like I was in better condition this year."

As to improving his game on the next level, Johnson is in search of a head coach that he feels can personally help develop his game.

"I'm looking for a head coach that is hands on," he said. "I want a coach that will help me develope my game. I also want to play for a coach that graduates players."

Johnson carries a 3.5 GPA and already has a qualifying ACT score.