From seeing him a year and a half ago as a 9th-grader at Detroit Edison, a 6-foot-7 Deante "Spider" Johnson passed the eye test of being a Division I prospect. He oozed with height and length in his arms for a player his age, hence the nickname, and naturally was able to block shots and rebound.
Fast forward to now, and Johnson has earned his first scholarship offer from Toledo while at their team camp over the weekend. Johnson is now 6-foot-8 and 190-pounds, and still growing. Toledo did themselves a service by getting in on him early, seeing what Johnson is able to do scoring wise, as a rebounder, and a shot blocker.
"After the team camp, the head coach walked up and told me how I fit into the program," said Johnson. "Me and my coach were talking to the Toledo head coach, and he said he wanted me to come to the school, and he would keep in contact with me. I was very excited to get m first offer, especially from a school like Toledo."
Just as much as Toledo liked Johnson, he liked Toledo just as much. He was able to get a closer look at the school, which left him impressed by what he saw.
"Today after the games, I went on a mini tour of the school," he said. "They showed me the weight-room, fitness room, and the locker room. I was impressed by the renovation of the school, and they showed me that they cared about basketball and academics."
"I'm not opposed to going back for a second look, and I'm open to any other opportunities that come my way."
Johnson suffered a broken elbow in the middle of last season that sat him down for a few games. He has since fully recovered from the injury, and is looking to have a breakout season for the Pioneers. Edison will join the Detroit Public School League for athletics this fall, which excites Johnson, being able to play against top talent every game.
"I'm expecting great things this season. We have a great group of guys that are willing to play together, play hard, and win games," he said. "I will be a better leader on this team, and try to guide my team to more victories."
