After nearly six months of summer basketball, the travel season has ended and the yearly shift towards high school hoops has finally begun. Although there is still a lot of basketball going on between camps, fall leagues, and other preseason jamborees, this is typically the quietest time of the year for the grassroots community. Which, in turn, means there’s no better time to highlight individuals who have the tools and ability to be breakout players over the next eight months. While this notion could certainly apply to a variety of prospects, the emphasis is primarily on younger guys with an increased role, new school situation, or those who simply take the next step in their progression. After a strong travel ball season, Heath Johnson (Pinecrest) continues to turn heads as a potential priority for college coaches. Let’s take a closer look…
It’s no secret that big men have become an extremely desirable commodity for college coaches at every level, and someone like Johnson should have obvious appeal. At 6-foot-8, he provides an enticing blend of size, skill, and nonstop energy on both ends of the floor. Johnson is a quality finisher with the ability to score with touch out of the post or power above the rim. He’s capable of finishing with either hand or going over either shoulder. Although he does most of his work around the basket, Johnson has shown the ability to step out and knock down perimeter jumpers as needed. He runs the floor well in transition and consistently capitalizes on second-chance efforts on the glass. Although he’s already a useful offensive piece, his skillset continues to grow with each viewing.
That being said, so much of Johnson’s value comes through his physical rebounding presence and rugged defensive prowess. He overwhelms opponents with his motor, but also has the size, strength, and toughness to make a lasting impression. Johnson positions himself very well to block or alter shots defensively. He outworks opponents for second-chance opportunities, and is willing to sacrifice his body to make hustle plays whenever possible. Already clearly trending as a scholarship-level prospect, Johnson’s stock should only continue to climb over the coming months.