A.J. Johnson ascending vertically in the 2023 class

LAS VEGAS – It wasn’t too long ago that combo guard A.J. Johnson was referred to as the talented workout partner and “little brother” of Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green.

Fast forward a few months and now the 6-foot-4 explosive quick and fast guard is being mentioned among the top prospects in the 2023 cycle.

Johnson has put his blow by quickness and speed, ability to play well above the rim, court vision and smooth perimeter stroke on display at the Pangos All-American Camp.

The California native that doesn’t turn 18 until December 1st has gone from two offers at the end of 2021 to over 15 headed into the live period.

“I’ve been putting the work in,” Johnson told On3. “I just trust the process. At a young age, I saw how many players were bigger than me, and had stronger bodies than me. I stayed to my game and worked hard every single day. And I still work hard every single day.”

That statement has been proven out at the Pangos All-American Camp. Johnson got an individual hour skills workout in early Monday morning before day two of the camp began. 

Louisville and LSU have made an impression

Johnson is in the midst of a recruiting whirlwind right now. He has received nine high-major offers since February, including Louisville most recently.

Louisville: “I just like the coach. When I was talking to the coach (Kenny Payne), he just seemed like a real coach. He pushed me to play my hardest, and that’s what I like about him. I know the program is pretty big.”

LSU: “The coach stands out. I really do feel like he has my best interest. He said I’m a number one priority. I talk to him all the time. It’s real love with him. I saw how he coached Ja Morant, but haven’t watched his teams a lot.”

Arizona State: “Again, it’s the coaching. I like the way they let their guards go. The freedom to let guards go, and trust them to make plays.” 

USC: “Hometown. I’m really good with the coach. I like the way they play, and I’ve been to a lot of games there. I feel like they play fast like I like to play. They put their guards in pick and roll situations, and let them make plays for others.” 

Up next will be the visit process for Johnson.

“My first will be to Arizona or Arizona State. Then I want to do LSU during the football season so I can go to a game (football) and stuff.”

Gonzaga, Kentucky, Texas and Xavier were also mentioned by Green.

Johnson all about development

Being coached hard to ensure development has a strong appeal for the ultra talented guard.

“I’m looking for a coach that is going to coach me really hard. A coach that has my best interests, let me play freely. A coach that is going to help me be a better player and man. That’s it.