re: Tide Hoops | Offseason

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Crimson Crossover Exclusive: One on One with RJ Johnson

Guard RJ Johnson from Grissom High School received an offer from Alabama following the conclusion of his visit of Alabama. Johnson is the top ranked player in the state of Alabama for the 2023 recruiting cycle and is ranked as a three star, per 247 Sports. He is coming off a solid summer playing lead guard for the GA Stars EYBL program. Alabama fans should expect Johnson to rise in the rankings as the season begins.

Johnson is a bulldog type of point guard who does all the little things well. He’ll get into opposing guards and defend, he rebounds at a high level for his size, and gets to the free throw line at an efficient rate. Per Synergy, Johnson shot 38% from three, on a small sample size of 34 attempts. His best qualities, in my opinion, come on the defensive end. He is a strong guard who doesn’t get pushed off his spots and can dictate where smaller guards are able to get on the court. Johnson’s intensity on both ends of the floor won’t be questioned. He does everything Nate Oats and Co. are looking for in a “Blue Collar” player – hustling for loose balls, crashing the boards, guarding hard on and off the ball. He is a player who makes it evident in his game that he is hungry to win and hungry to improve. Johnson possesses qualities you like to see in a multi-year guard who adds value to your culture and on the court. Johnson should see his national ranking rise as recruiting services update their rankings from this summer’s live period. Johnson took time after his visit to chat with us on the latest in his recruitment, how his visit went, and how it felt to receive an offer from Alabama.

How did you like your visit today? What did you think of the campus?

“At first, I had mixed emotions not knowing what I was getting into, but as soon as I met everybody it started to feel like I had known them for a while. The campus was great. There are a lot of people and easy access to everything you would need as an athlete.”

Did you have a particular player you spent the day with? Or was it mainly with the coaching staff or a group of players?

“I spent lunch with Noah Clowney, Brandon Miller, and the coaching staff. Then I spent some time with the guys in the lounge and chopped it up with them.”

What are your thoughts on the guys you spent time with and the coaching staff?

“The guys felt like big brothers, and it was fun to chop it up and talk about everything, not just basketball. Coach Pettway and Oats are really great people.”

What about from a basketball standpoint? How do you see yourself potentially fitting Alabama’s style?

“They see me as one of the four guards out there with a 5. No specific spot. I can play all over and play like to JD and Herb. I can attack the rim, knock down open threes, and kick to shooters in the corner. They think I can be a potential pro I just have to keep working.”

How do you see yourself fitting in? What do you like about Alabama’s system?

“I think I could be an immediate impact player anywhere I go just because if anything, I am going to play hard and defend. Alabama gets out in transition and attacks or kicks for three.”

Your commitment date is set for August 22nd, is that still the plan?

“My family and I have decided to wait until after Labor Day.”

For those unfamiliar with your game, how would you describe yourself? What are your strengths and what areas do you want to improve during your senior year?

“I am a playmaker who will do anything to win. I can get you a bucket whenever I need to. I love getting downhill and finding open teammates. This year I am hoping to show off my three-ball because I can shoot your eye out.”

How did it feel to get the Alabama offer today?

“It felt like opening a gift at Christmas. It’s like receiving what you have been praying and asking for.”

RJ Johnson is a player that Alabama fans should keep an eye on as his decision date draws near.

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