1 on 1 with Top Ranked 2029 Ronald Johnson at Sophomore ID Camp

This past weekend at the Prep Hoops Illinois Sophomore ID Camp there were a ton of top ranked players including half of the top 25 overall.  One stood above the rest and that was the #1 overall prospect in the 2029 class Mt. Carmel point guard Ronald Johnson Ronald Johnson 6'3" | PG Mt. Carmel | 2029 State IL .

The Caravan standout cemented his status as the top player in the class with several big time performances.  It is his ability to impact the game across the board that makes him so special.  First is size for position as a 6'3” combo guard with a strong frame he can play with physicality against weaker guards.  The athleticism is top notch for a lead guard.  Wins off the dribble getting downhill with consistency.  Capable shooter that continues to improve in that area with consistency each time we see him.  Willing passer that dishes it with feel and flair.  He is a plus rebounder and defender that will stuff the stat sheet game in and game out.

We chatted with Johnson about how he felt the summer went playing with both his high school team in June along with Mac Irvin Fire on the Nike EYBL 15U circuit.

“I think it went very well.  I feel I got better over the summer and worked on the things I need to work on.”

He talked about the growth in his game since last high school season to where he is at now.

“Expanding to the three point line.  At the end of the season I wasn't as confident with my three point ball.  Now I am very confident.”

Johnson plays with the player that sits right behind him in the 2029 rankings DK Heard DK Heard 6'5" | SF Mt. Carmel | 2029 State IL to form the most dynamic young core in the state.  They play together year round and it is paying off as they are both playing at a high level.

“Playing with him builds chemistry and the more we play together the better the bond gets.  Now we are brothers.  It is looking scary for whoever plays us.”

In addition to Heard the Caravan have Logan Wessel Logan Wessel 6'5" | SG Chicago Mt. Carmel | 2027 State IL who made a massive jump over the summer as a senior leader that can shoot and play above the rim.  Up front Tim Adenrele Tim Adenrele 6'11" | C Chicago Mt. Carmel | 2027 State IL took a big leap as well as a big man at 6'11”.  Football superstar Marshaun Thornton Marshaun Thornton 6'3" | SF Mt. Carmel | 2028 State IL is a two way wing that impacts winning in a major way.  How does Johnson feel heading into his junior campaign about his team?

“This season I think we have a chance to win it all.  My teammates and I all grew as a team.  We have experience and that plays a big role in a team that wins state.  Hopefully some more of our guys get offers and the opportunity to keep playing.”

Recruiting has changed and slowed down for younger prospects in the age of the transfer portal, 5 for 5, and now even players coming back from playing professional.  The Mt. Carmel sophomore told us what schools he is hearing from extremely early in the process.

“I was at Ball State the other day.  They are showing interest.  I got the offer from Western Illinois.  Some schools like UIC want to build a connection with me.  I really want to go to Valpo and see what their campus is like.  Of course I want to go to any school that is interested in me.”

Johnson broke down what he believes he brings to a team at the next level.

“I am a do it all point guard with good court vision and IQ.  I can really do everything.  Can shoot it, get to the rim, rebound, and defend.  Really an all-around game.”

Could not have said it better!