For the second consecutive year Anthony Johnson’s Whitney Young team is heading to the Illinois state semifinals.  Johnson was sidelined for most of the post season last season but has been a key leader for Young this season. 

Johnson’s energy, tenacious defense, and scoring ability was very much on display in Young’s pull away 63-39 win over traditional suburban football power Maine South.  The game was competitive early, tied 15-15 after a quarter and a 28-24 Young lead at half, but Young’s defense allowed them to pull away.  Amazingly, Young held Maine South scoreless for the entire third quarter and led 42-24 at its conclusion.  Johnson deserves much of the credit for his tight pressure on the point taking the ball up the court and in press situation, which were employed regularly in the second and third quarter.

Johnson provided much of the defensive energy for Young, often clapping in the ball carriers face or leading the team to the bench after a turnover.  Certainly, Matt Painter will not have to work hard to install a pride for defense in Johnson.  Painter’s tennis ball drill to prevent defenders from holding could be needed as Johnson got a little grabby and times, but pride in his defensive effort was always evident.

The slight framed Johnson also showed a quick and smooth shot and a nose for the hoop at times.  Much of Young’s offense is run through Oregon State point guard recruit Ahmad Starks (22 points), but Johnson provided to be a valuable outlet for him.  Johnson finished with 19, often hitting open jumpers after Starks’ passes, but also driving to the hoop when the defense showed a seem.

Johnson left the game for a few minutes with what appeared to be a shoulder injury but did return even though the outcome was no longer in doubt.  Following is a brief rundown of his strenghts and weaknesses. 

Strengths

  • Committment, energy, and ability at the defensive end.
  • Ability to hit the open jumper
  • Capable of driving to the hoop in traffic

Weaknesses

  • Very slim
  • Can be over aggressive on defense
  • Isn’t called upon to create very much on the offensive end.

Purdue player most similar to:  Keaton Grant