At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over one hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III or NAIA levels, and that number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we take a closer look at guys who are overlooked and underrated, and today's edition will highlight Camden Johnson of Metrolina Christian.
Previously, we've seen Johnson in all types of settings, including when Miles Masercola did a preview for Metrolina, stating, 'Johnson was an excellent supplemental piece for Metrolina in this one, creating offense through his defense, and finding a way to get involved on the glass to come up with some timely rebounds. He looks to be on track to take the keys to the car next year when Tate Johnson leaves, and he should continue to help Metrolina with his defensive tenacity throughout the rest of the year. Another 2021 to keep your eye on.' Later, our Colby Lewis said, 'Camden Johnson is a tough, strong guard who impacts the game on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he attacks the basket strong. He gets into the paint and finishes well through contact. On the defensive end, he is a good on-ball defender, keeping his chest in front of his man. He finished with a team-high 19 points.'
All that still remains true, and arguably even more evident with Johnson in a leadership role for Metrolina. This season, he's posting nightly averages of 15.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 2.4 SPG while sporting a 4.7 GPA. Johnson has shown an improved comfort level with running the team and asserting himself as a primary cog on either side of the ball. He does a great job of getting downhill, attacking the basket, and converting or drawing fouls and knocking down opportunities at the line. Johnson makes a quality impact in transition and is capable of setting up others as needed. In addition to his on-court ability, his academics should also make him a priority for various next-level programs.
