Basketball: Serra’s Johnson is emerging as a legitimate prospect

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Played phone tag with Gardena Serra Coach Dwan Hurt for most of the week but I was finally able to get ahold of him Sunday morning. Anyway, we had a great conversation, mostly about Kevin Johnson, a name Varsity Times Insider readers, avid and recreational alike, should remember from here on out.

Johnson opened eyes last season as a freshman, averaging double digits in points and rebounds while playing on a team loaded with far more experienced players. And I would not be surprised if we see the 6-foot-9, 240-pound sophomore improve on those numbers once the season rolls around in December.

‘Kevin’s eyes were big last season, but he met every challenge in front of him,’’ Hurt said. ‘You know, we didn’t have a lot of expectations for him either. We didn’t want to overwhelm him. He matured quickly though. He has this tenacity about him, on both ends of the floor. That’s something you just can’t teach a kid.’’

Johnson was busy on the summer hoops circuit, traveling to various camps and showcases, and he’s been well received by Division I scouts as a result. By no means do I intend to put any added pressure on him, but by the time he’s a senior, we could be talking about one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation.

‘At this stage, Kevin is more advanced than most kids his age, without question,’’ Hurt said. ‘The best thing about him is: He’s very receptive to coaching. He works hard and is eager to learn. He has this desire to be the best and if he keeps up that attitude, he’ll not only play at the next level, but he’ll excel in college.’’

-- Sean Ceglinsky