Destroying complacency and providing an immeasurable jolt of energy, Nico Johnson brings defensive tenacity and superior finishing ability.
The 6-foot guard, who recently transferred from Danville (Ill.) to The Conrad Academy (FL), possesses a level of uber athleticism only a select core can simulate. It translates into high efficiency scoring while simultaneously rendering him a key source on transition buckets.
Johnson, who often attacks in the form of a lefty, is transitioning to more of a creator's role this season.
He's turned up his focus in this area, while making his mid-range and pull-up game major options in his toolbox.
Now Johnson will routinely get his big stage teeth cut on a national level.
And, on TCA team heavily stacked with guards, he's flanked by a pair of high-end recruits in Luguentz Dort and David Sloan.
For Johnson, sustaining the he high adrenaline is integral.
Especially in a program that employs the speedball approach early and often and effectively.
When gauging Johnson's bouncy athleticism, his skill-set is traceable to his bloodline.
Johnson's father, Earl Johnson, authored a memorable career at Rutgers and later Iona.
Johnson's mother, LaTana Lillard, starred as a defensive-minded forward under legendary coach C. Vivian Stringer at Rutgers.
Johnson on His Role
My role this year is to be a contributor and a leader, to take care of the ball, to defend, to score here and there and to control the tempo. I think we have the potential to finish the rest of the season undefeated. That's what we plan on doing. We've got a lot of pieces and we'll continue to work until it all comes together at the right time for us.
On His Identity
I take the most pride in my athleticism and that particular aspect of my game. My ability to defend, score, and contribute in a number of ways is just as important.
On His Bloodline
Knowing both my parents had success in basketball, it's a little bit of pressure but there's a lot of support. I inherited a little bit of skill from both of them so I'm thankful for it. I just try to use it to my advantage and go out there and make my own name.
On NCAA Interest
Right now I hold offers from SIU-Edwardsville and Richmond. I'm getting interest from Eastern Illinois, Western Illinois, Providence, St. Bonaventure, Rhode Island, and a lot of other schools.