James Johns, LuHi junior, has high major schools on his mind

Shooting travels and Long Island (N.Y.) Lutheran’s James Johns is a highly confident shooter. The 6-foot-6 junior is particular with the players he watches and draws.

“My game is predicated around shooting,” Johns told On3 Sports. “I get everything off my shot. If my three is falling, the defense will play up, and I can get into the mid-range. So my game is definitely around my shot. I have gotten a lot stronger and more athletic, which has helped me on the defensive end.

“I have heard I play like Jayson Tatum and Devin Booker some. Tatum’s attention to detail stands out; every move he makes is precise. Booker’s shot-making ability I watch, him getting to his spot anytime he wants.”

This summer, he opened his eyes with his play on Team Final on Nike’s 16u EYBL circuit. Coaches took notice. James Johns spoke exclusively with On3 Sports about his recruitment.

“Of the schools who have offered me, I hear the most from Ole Miss and Wake Forest,” Johns said. “I have not been on any visits yet, but I will be setting up visits with both of them soon.”

Johns talks recruitment

Ole Miss: “It is a good program, and the SEC is a great conference. They have been showing me love ever since the beginning of my sophomore year. I am going to visit there and learn more about the program and campus.”

Wake Forest: “My coach here walked on a Wake Forest, so there is a natural relationship there. They started recruiting me when I first got to LuHi (Long Island Lutheran). They’re a great school; they compete with Duke and all the big schools in the ACC.”

Johns’ take

“I am looking for a school and a program that shows a lot of love,” Johns said. “The place where I am needed most, and they fit what I do. I understand I have to play within a system, but I am going to look at an offense that will allow me to play my game.”

On3’s take

James Johns has excellent positional size, and his jump shot is confident and repeatable. At 6-6, he showed good understanding in attacking closeouts in straight lines. As Johns gets stronger and develops a little more pop, he will finish better in traffic. He needs to continue tightening the handle, but the shooting is real, and shooting translates, especially in today’s game. Not yet a finished product, tools are in place to intrigue looking forward.