Noel Johnson, Not Going to USC?

According to Evan Daniels of scout.com Johnson has decided not to attend USC. Before committing to USC in September of 08' Johnson's list of schools included UCLA, N.C. State, Miami, Wake Forest, UNLV, Texas and Indiana. We had the privilege of watching this young man play in the 09' Derby Classic, where he posted 10 points, 1 rebound, one steal and an assist in about 15 minutes of play.

Below is an article that we wrote awhile back about Johnson's impressive childhood.

As a freshman at Lovejoy High, Johnson was tabbed as one of the top prospects in the state. Now the senior from Fayette County high is one of the top prospects in the nation. However the grounded Johnson keeps everything in the right perspective:

“I just look at myself as just another individual that plays basketball.”

Noel’s family and support system has always had him involved in athletics. Johnson’s father was a star at Wichita State and played one season for the Golden State Warriors. Johnson has inherited his fathers athletic ability to go along with his 6′7, 180 pound frame. The kid has developed the ability to aggressively attack the rim and sports an improved jumper.

Johnson lists his parents as the biggest role models in his life:

“Both of my parents ‘cause they want me to strive to be the best at everything I do.”

Johnson’s father has had Noel mentored and tutored by some of the classiest people associated with the game:

-Xavier McDaniel is Johnson’s godfather.

-Nate “Tiny” Archibald, teaches Johnson ball handling ,court vision and awareness drills.

-Former Hawk Mike Glenn teaches him shooting and helps to mold him into a well rounded student/athlete (Johnson carries a respectable B average)

-The first ever African American to sign a scholarship at UNC, Charlie Scott helps Johnson with offensive consistency.

In December of 2007, while playing in front of a packed gym, including Rick Pitino. Johnson burned Mctinosh Ga, for 42 points and 14 boards. In March of 08′ it was more of the same. Johnson’s late three pointer closed the game out against #7 ranked Miller Grove in the state 3-A semifinals game. Johnson finished the game with 29 points. Johnson finished his junior campaign averaging 29 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists per contest. The quick rising junior had this to say after his clutch performance:

“We knew they were not going to get rattled,” Johnson said. “We just had to keep our composure.”

Mfon Udofia, who led Miller Grove to its first trip to the semifinals, finished with a game-high 30 points. Johnson went on to be named to the State AAA first team along with Mfon Udofia.

When Johnson was asked what was looking for in a program and coach he added:

“(I’m looking for) A coach that enjoys the game as much as I do but at the same time wants to help each and every player reach the next level.”

“I’m looking at how important the school takes education. Also, I’m looking at how the school takes care of their alumni.”

Photo courtesy of here.