Michigan Basketball: U-M Steals Brandon Johns From MSU’s Backyard
Michigan basketball got its second huge piece from the 2018 class Tuesday … and John Beilein poached it from Tom Izzo’s backyard. East Lansing (Mich.) four-star Brandon Johns committed to the Wolverines over Michigan State, Indiana, Purdue and others, joining Detroit East English Village point guard David DeJulius on U-M’s commit list.
Johns said in mid-June the Wolverines were definitely high on his list, something that has seemed evident since last summer.
“They are telling me I can mix between a three and a four with them, run up and down the floor … I’m more a natural three, but it’s not a tough adjustment to go to the four,” he said.
It fits his game, he said, and is one of the reasons the Wolverines are high on his list.
Johns has averaged 12.6 points and shot 43.6 percent from three-point range for Spiece Indy Heat on the Nike EYBL circuit this year, and his stock has continued to rise. He listed coaching style, teammates, the school and campus, comfortability and environment as factors into his decision.
He said in May U-M felt “different” than other schools … and he meant it in a good way.
Johns earned CBS MaxPreps Junior All-American honors and was voted the Class A player of the year by the Associated Press and Prep Hoops Michigan after averaging 20.6 points, 10.5 rebounds and 3.2 blocks while helping East Lansing to a 24-1. The team won the CAAC Blue and district championships.
Indy Heat coach Dan Kline said this spring he was impressed with the jump Johns has made since last year.
“It’s night and day,” said Kline. “Last year, it was like deer in the headlights. He’s a go-to guy now. But he knows what is all about. He has a lot of experience, and he knows how to play the game possession by possession. I’m pleased with where he is at, and how far he’s come.”
It was on display at the recent Michigan College Practice Camp, as well, where Johns dominated.
Watch for more on this development in the hours to come …
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