Memphis guard is on the rise
There was never any doubt in JaJuan Johnson's mind that he could play at a high level. He also knew that with hard work his ability would be recognized.
After a monster spring with the Bluff City Legends, the 6-foot-4 shooting guard from Memphis (Tenn.) Southwind is one of the hottest prospects in the country.
Advertisement
"It's been big for me," Johnson told Rivals.com about his play on the grassroots circuit. "I can tell just with all of these calls that I've been getting here."
Johnson hasn't just been getting calls, he's been adding to his long list of offers.
His most recent offers have come from West Virginia and Florida State to go on top of offers from programs like Memphis, Tennessee, Auburn, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, Texas, Cincinnati, Marquette and Ole Miss.
During the month of June, Johnson has been busy on the visit trail. He's been by Ole Miss and Memphis and has plans to see Alabama next week. He also stopped by Louisville and the visit left an impression.
"It was really nice," said Johnson. "Everything was new. They had a lot of nice stuff to show me and they have a cool staff."
A slim shooter/score who can really defend, Johnson currently ranks No. 109 in the Rivals150. However, that will change when the rankings are updated and he'll be making a sizable move up.
Johnson is slated to attend the Kevin Durant Skills Academy next week and will then hit LeBron James' Academy and events with the Bluff City Legends. He'll also chop his list down to around five schools.
"I'm going to do it right after Peach Jam," said Johnson. "I want a school that plays my style of play and that I have a good relationship with the coaches. Also a place that I could see myself staying after I get done playing."
Finally, Johnson couldn't be any happier with the position he is in. He's proved he can play and is proud to have gotten his attention because of his play and not because of a reputation.
"It feels good," said Johnson of his success. "I've been playing with J3 (Johnathan Williams and Nick King and they are All-Americans. I've known I was just as good and people would see it. It just made me hungry to show what I can do."