Butler Basketball: 2020 wing Scooby Johnson talks visit, recruitment

2020 wing Scooby Johnson recently took an official visit to Butler Basketball. He talks about his takeaways and how his recruitment is progressing.

Carlos “Scooby” Johnson is one of the most unique prospects in the 2020 class. The 6-foot-6 combo forward is currently rated as the No. 137 overall recruit in the nation by the 247Sports Composite but this seems like underrating the young star. Johnson is truly a do-it-all player on the court and boasts positional versatility as well. When healthy, Johnson looks the part of an immediately impactful college player on both ends of the floor. He brings size, skill, and toughness and would be a great addition to any program.

Johnson was limited to playing in just 11 games on the Nike EYBL circuit this summer due to injury but was spectacular for The Family Detroit (MI). He posted averages of 15.2 points (.508/.325/.622), 5.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in those contests. The Michigan native simply does a little bit of everything when on the court and fits the mold of a perfect modern combo forward.

Johnson boasts a multifaceted skillset and can be used as an offensive focal point at the college level either as a scorer or playmaker. He is already quite strong and brings a college-ready body to the floor. This helps him bully his way to the basket as well as stand his ground on the defensive end. Additionally, Johnson’s athleticism is underrated as he can burst to the basket out of dribble moves and finish above the rim. This combination of quickness and strength also helps him defend multiple positions.

With regards to his recruitment, Butler Basketball recently hosted Scooby Johnson for an official visit over the weekend of Sept. 7th.

https://twitter.com/scoobycm35/status/1171072688728752133

I caught up with the rising high school senior to talk about his trip to Indianapolis and overall recruitment. (This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.)

Q: What were the biggest takeaways from your official visit to Butler? Has the Butler staff indicated how they would want to use you in their system at all?

“Everything was good. There wasn’t anything in particular [that stood out] – I’d say everything was good. I knew some players from around the area. [Butler’s coaching staff] wants me to be a key because of my versatility.”

Q: How would you describe your playing style? What do you believe are some of your biggest strengths and which areas are you working on most?

“My playing style is all-around. I like to do everything. I’m working on my guard play and shooting since I’m going to be a wing – just getting the feeling and improving my speed. Most people say my vision is the best thing.”

Q: Which other programs are involved in your recruitment? What are those schools pitching to you? 

“DePaul, Western Michigan, Northwestern and a few more are pitching me on being the key in their offense and getting me better for the next level.”

Q: Do you follow the recruiting efforts of those programs to see who you might be playing alongside in the future?

“Yeah, I research to see who will be there unless the NBA calls them. I just don’t want to go somewhere where I don’t like the other players’ style of play or mindsets.”

Q: What are you looking for most with regards to your future school?

“I’m looking at a school that can help me reach my goals and dreams. One that offers opportunities and comfort.”

Q: Do you have a timetable set for any visits or your commitment?

“Not decided on when I want to commit yet but I’m thinking soon.”

Q: What are your goals for your senior year, both as a team and for your individual growth as a player?

“Dominate my last year, bring one more back home, and become a leader. I want to step out of my comfort zone and help get others better. As an individual, just getting my self ready for the real world and next level.”

With regards to Butler, in particular, the program is off to a great start in the 2020 class. The Dawgs are not often regarded as a recruiting powerhouse but Coach Jordan is seeking to change that. Butler’s 2020 recruiting class currently features three commits with guards Myles Tate (No. 109 overall) and Chuck Harris (No. 149) as well as a budding big man in Myles Wilmoth (No. 290). This trio ranks at No. 11 in the entire nation right now.

Scooby Johnson would be an outstanding fit alongside those three as he brings the versatility and size needed to fit in Coach Jordan’s future scheme. Butler currently has two open scholarships remaining for the class and they would love to finish the class with Johnson and JaKobe Coles (No. 145). Those are the only two priority targets remaining for the program.