Cooper was a big-time presence in the paint on both offense and defense. He dominated in the post with a variety of moves. Cooper seemed to always have a mis-match in Saturday’s game. He took full advantage by using a host of pump fakes, floaters and turn around jump-shots to get the job done. He also dominated the glass with double-digit rebounds. A majority of his offensive boards led to easy put-backs around the basket. The defensive rebounds he grabbed often led to outlet passes that started fast-break opportunities. There were moments in the game when Cooper extended his range outside the paint by knocking down numerous shots on the perimeter. Cooper is an excellent scorer who is capable of having a productive Sophomore season.

One of the bright spots in the loss for Hard Hoops 15u was the play of 2029 forward Cooper Johnson Cooper Johnson 5'10" | SG St. Paul Highland Park | 2028 State MN . He’s a skilled and physical frontcourt prospect with the footwork to go to work in isolation on the block, and an impressive mid-range game. Cooper is able to face up and either attack with one/two dribbles, or simply elevate for a jumper. He even acted as a point-forward at times as he has a good handle at 6’3 and sees the floor well. Defensively he was able to hold his ground and wall up to protect the rim, blocking a few shots throughout the game.

Cooper is an imposing, impactful wing that makes great decisions on both ends of the court. He’s a dominant rebounder and frequently gets second and third opportunities on the offensive end for his team. He secures the paint nicely as a defender and has the length to consistently block and alter opposing shots and create general havoc defensively. He stretches the floor nicely with his shooting ability and his IQ is next level with the way he makes quick decisions often and sets his teammates up for success.

Cooper

He stayed active around the basket and consistently helped on the glass. He cleaned up misses, covered ground defensively, and helped erase mistakes with his effort and positioning. Offensively, he attacked the basket with confidence when driving after a ball fake. His motor and activity level was steady throughout the game.

Johnson showed his versatility at the Sooner State Special, playing for Hard Hoops Grey. At 6’3″, he can play both inside and outside. Cooper showed that he can facilitate and even bring the ball up the floor when needed to. Johnson can space the floor in half court settings and has an efficient outside shot. The freshman provided defensive rebounding and left the weekend as the leading rebound for his club. His stroke also translates to the foul stripe. As someone that can handle to ball and hit free throws he becomes that much more important as someone that his team cannot afford to have off the court down the stretch of games.