Top-25 incoming sophomore Jayden Johnson talks early recruitment
Over the last three years, I’ve had the opportunity to watch 2026 prospect Jayden Johnson, a native of Louisville, KY. Johnson, a freshman, has been playing against varsity competition over the last three years.
Johnson has always stood out. Whether it’s been the progress and the skill of the young 6-foot-6 shooting guard, he’s always been one of the youngest on the floor and it has never stopped him from producing.
Johnson had multiple 20+ point outings this past season and continues to progress on an uphill track, even with three high school seasons left. That success continued on from the high school season all the way to the AAU season.
Due to him being one of the youngest players on the court every time he steps out there, he drew early attention from colleges due to his potential early on.
Johnson, a 2026 prospect, can’t hear directly from college coaches just yet, but with a handful of high majors already offering him he’s already all over the radar.
He competed in USA Basketball camp a few months ago and was very close to earning himself a spot on Team USA’s U16 team. I believe despite not making the cut this year, he will be able to don the USA uniform before he heads to college.
Johnson talked about his early recruitment with Stockrisers.com and plenty of heavy hitters are still in the mix.
Which schools would you say are the heaviest involved? I know it’s early, but who would you say?
“West Virginia, Xavier, Indiana, Cincy, Michigan, and Kentucky.”
And have any new schools over the last few weeks since AAU quieted down to get involved?
“Illinois has shown interest lately.”
What are your thoughts on Kentucky and how has the staff shown you significant interest early?
“They have come to my last few games and I’m very thankful for that. It’s pretty big when BBN shows some interest.”
How about a school like Michigan, what are your thoughts on them and what’s the relationship like with them early?
“Michigan is a great school Coach [Juwan] Howard has been to my games and I have a great relationship with Coach Smith. I’m looking forward for them to come to my high school games.”
How about Cincinnati, with them in the Big 12 now, how do you feel about them?
“Cincy is in a great position being in the Big 12, players get to be more in the spotlight and they are Jordan brand now, so looks like a lot is changing in a positive direction.”
And are you going to begin the visit process? Anything you’re potentially working on?
“Yes, I’m going on a few visits in this order. Indiana, Xavier, Cincy, West Virginia, and Texas A&M.”
Any timeline on when those visits will begin?
“This month and September.”
And how would you describe your on-court mentality?
“It’s like a secret power. I’m looking to break down your offense by seeing the floor and any broken plays where I can get my teammates involved. I’m very unselfish, I like for all my teammates to shine but when needed I will take over the game on both ends defensively and offensively.”
And how is your game improving?
“My handle is getting tighter and I’m working on finishing at the rim through contact. I workout at three times a day and do speed and agility twice a week. I’m a gym waiting I have to improve every day.”