Nothing like starting the season off right and that is exactly what 2022 Butta Johnson did when Grissom took on Hazel Green. Phenom Hoops tuned in for an exciting game, as Johnson went off for 35 points including a 19-point outburst in the third quarter. The senior scoring guard has had an excellent summer and looks to carry that over to this season.
Phenom Game Report: Hazel Green vs. Grissom (Alabama)
Already holding multiple offers, could more schools be coming his way' We talk to him about all the latest.
Phenom: What is your excitement and focus on this season at Grissom'
Johnson: My excitement and focus this year have mainly been leading my teammates and cherishing every moment. Last year, I only played six games which was very short, so I'm just trying to take everything all in especially because it's my senior year and this is where it all ends.
Phenom: How would you best describe your game'
Johnson: I would describe my game as a 3-level scorer. Can shoot from outside the arc, a great mid-range, and can finish at the basket. But I also love to take pride in my defense. I feel like I'm a great defender and make everything tough on my opponents.
Phenom: Where are you at your best on the floor'
Johnson: I feel like I am at my best when I'm on the floor in general; I feel like I understand the game of basketball very well, study film for good periods of time, and know what positions my teammates need to be in, in order for us to win a ball game. But especially when I'm on the floor and the ball is in my hands, that's when I feel the most dangerous.
Phenom: Put on a scoring showing to start the season. How was that to have a start like that to your season'
Johnson: To have a start like that means a lot. For me, it's a statement year for me to keep proving I am the best in the state but also a top player in the nation and that I am a high-major D1 basketball player.
Phenom: How has your recruitment been going'
Johnson: My recruitment has been going pretty well. I've just been taking my time and soaking up everything; that just comes with the recruitment process.
Phenom: What offers do you hold and who has been staying strong with you'
Johnson: Offers – Norfolk State University, Bryant University, Hampton University, Old Dominion University, Lehigh University, Jacksonville State University, University Of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG), McNeese University, Tennessee Tech University, & Middle Tennessee State University. UNCG, Old Dominion, Jacksonville State, and Tennessee Tech have been staying strong with me.
Phenom: What have they said that they like about your game and what you can bring'
Johnson: They've said and know that I can bring in my scoring and defensive ability, and to be able to come in and lead as a freshman.
Phenom: Have you made any visits or have any coming up'
Johnson: I have taken an official visit to UNCG and as of right now, no other visits are set yet.
Phenom: What other schools have been showing interest that hasn’t offered'
Johnson: Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech, Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, James Madison University, Ole Miss, South Alabama University, Murray State, Texas A&M Corpus Christi.
Phenom: Any time frame of when you may decide'
Johnson: Most likely will decide on the second half of our basketball season. The earliest is in late January but looking around March and April.
