Alexander Johnson

Visited - 4/18/03 Signed with Florida State on 5/14/03

5/15: "Johnson, who also visited Cincinnati before originally signing with the Bulldogs, said his latest trip turned him off on the school." - Tallahassee Democrat

5/15: "As a high school senior playing basketball less than 100 miles north of Tallahassee, Alexander Johnson had no interest in the Florida State Seminoles. Not when Steve Robinson was the head coach two seasons ago, nor when Leonard Hamilton took over in 2002. “He (Hamilton) called me when he first got the job, and I told him wasn’t coming to Florida State,” Johnson said. “I had no interest in Florida State.” But after a tumultuous year involving two separate scandals at the University of Georgia, his first choice out of Albany’s Dougherty High School, the 6-foot-9, 230-pound Johnson suddenly found himself searching for a new home – and it turned out he wouldn’t have to look far.

On Wednesday night, surrounded by more than 20 friends and family, the highly regarded power forward signed a letter of intent to play with Hamilton and the Seminoles. Johnson strengthens a recruiting class already ranked among the top 15 in the country. He is rated by Rivals.com as a five-star forward and the 16th best player in the class of 2003, and he will enter Florida State along with fellow blue-chipper Von Wafer, a McDonald’s All-American, and junior college standouts Diego Romero and Antonio Griffin.

Seeing the class Hamilton already had assembled sent Johnson a message that FSU’s second-year coach is serious about lifting the Seminoles back into the national spotlight. “He’s rebuilding the program, and I really want to be a part of it,” Johnson said.

Johnson, who averaged 25 points and 13 rebounds a game at Bridgton Academy in Maine this past season, said he also looks forward to competing in the Atlantic Coast Conference. “There’s some good competition in the ACC,” Johnson said. “You play Duke, North Carolina, all the top schools. If I’m as good as everybody says I am, I’ve got a chance to prove that I’m one of the top players in the nation.”

Johnson said he made the decision to attend Florida State instead of his other finalists, Connecticut and Cincinnati, in the last two days.

Some have speculated UConn’s chances dwindled when Ed Nelson, a former Georgia Tech forward, announced this week that he would transfer to the Huskies. But Johnson said that wasn’t a factor.

He also said he wasn’t bothered by rumors that Cincy’s Bob Huggins is being considered as a candidate for the head coaching position with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers. In fact, he said he hadn’t heard that rumor until a reporter questioned him about it at Wednesday’s signing.

Johnson originally signed with the Georgia Bulldogs a year ago but failed to meet NCAA academic requirements. After a year at Bridgton, Johnson planned to renew his commitment to the Bulldogs. But UGA coach Jim Harrick was relieved of his duties late in the season amid accusations of academic fraud and other improprieties, leaving Johnson to pursue his options elsewhere.

Johnson found himself at the center of more drama when a guidance counselor in Moultrie, Ga., resigned after allegedly trying to bribe a student to take the SAT for Johnson.

The counselor told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he participated in the scheme at the request of a friend in Albany, but he added that he didn’t know Johnson. And likewise, Johnson has denied knowing anything about the counselor or the test plot.

Bridgton coach Whit Lesure, who attended Johnson’s signing Wednesday, said the forward maintained a 3.3 grade-point average in prep school and notched the required test score on his own. Lesure added that Johnson was an ideal student and citizen at Bridgton – not to mention an incredibly gifted athlete. And he expects that Johnson will fit in nicely on a Florida State squad that lacked a consistent presence inside last season. “I think it was more about what opportunities were at Florida State,” Lesure of why Johnson selected the Seminoles. “I think common sense tells you that in his mind, he sees where he could be a bigger piece of the puzzle at Florida State than at UConn. But that’s me talking, not him.” Johnson, who finished up at Bridgton this past Saturday, plans to enroll at FSU this June." - Floridastate.rivals.com


5/15: "The University of Cincinnati, spurned by prep basketball recruit Alexander Johnson on Wednesday, must now decide what it wants to do with its last remaining scholarship. The Bearcats could keep the scholarship for the 2004-05 recruiting class or offer it to Asrangue Souleymane, a 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward-center from Laurinburg, N.C. and the Central African Republic. Johnson, a 6-9 forward from Albany, Ga., and Bridgton Academy in Maine, will attend Florida State. Johnson said he loved UC when he watched the Bearcats on TV, "but when you really go down there, you see the community, the coach and all that. I didn't have a feeling for it. My heart told me Florida State." - Enquirer.com

5/14: "Alexander Johnson officially eliminated Connecticut and Cincinnati this afternoon. Johnson made the phone calls over the past couple of hours. Johnson has decided to sign with Florida State." - www.RivalsHoops.com

5/14: "One day before deadline, star basketball recruit Alexander Johnson is prepared for a decision. But first, he narrowed his options. Johnson said on Tuesday he'll sign today with either Cincinnati or Florida State, which knocks Connecticut out of consideration. He said the decision was partly due to reports that Georgia Tech forward Ed Nelson has agreed to transfer to the Huskies.

That leaves the Bearcats and Seminoles, the two teams Johnson has consistently indicated for the past two months were his favorites. "I still don't know," Johnson said, "because it isn't clear with anybody."

Johnson, a former Dougherty High School star center, is considered by many the nation's top remaining prospect for next season. The deadline for prospects to sign to play next season is Thursday.

Johnson said he hasn't notified either school of a verbal commitment, and will commit and sign at the same time. According to friend Chuck Roberts, Johnson has received paperwork from all three schools, but won't even throw hints to friends and family. "He ain't going to tell nobody," Roberts said.

Johnson told The Herald three weeks ago Connecticut was out of the running, but an on-campus visit from coach Jim Calhoun and Johnson's official visit to Storrs, Conn., the following weekend put the Huskies back in the race until this week.

According to Johnson, new North Carolina coach Roy Williams made a late push. But rumors saying Johnson visited Chapel Hill, N.C., aren't true, and the Tar Heels aren't on his list. "They started recruiting me too late," Johnson said, "so I just said, 'Forget it.' "

Before his senior year at Dougherty in 2001-02, Johnson chose Georgia over Cincinnati after briefly committing to the Bearcats at one point.

A story on Rivalshoops.com Tuesday cited "a source close to Johnson" as saying Cincinnati "appears to be trailing" and that Johnson would decide between Florida State and Connecticut. Johnson called that report false, saying he'll decide to sign with either the Seminoles or Bearcats." - Albany Herald

5/13: "According to sources, Alexander Johnson will choose between Florida State and UConn Wednesday night at 7pm back home in Albany, Georgia. The 6-8 BF/C, who spent this past season at Bridgton Academy (Maine), still is considering Cincinnati, but the Bearcats, once thought to be on top of his list, have fallen off in the past week." - PrepStars

5/13: "Cincinnati appears to be trailing, according to a source close to Johnson. The same source who speaks to Johnson also told RivalsHoops.com Tuesday afternoon that Alexander knew that Connecticut was trying to land Nelson too. Johnson is a different type of player than Nelson. Alexander has the ability to drain three-pointers and play the small forward slot if necessary. Johnson also has the strength to play the four while Nelson could be slotted to play the center position. But this is the view for the Connecticut fans.

For Florida State fans, Johnson has always said he favors the southern part of the country. He also has praised the coaching staff there and had a great time on is visit to Florida State.

A source close to Johnson told RivalsHoops.com that Johnson is likely to decide between Florida State and Connecticut. Johnson was equally happy about his visit to Cincinnati. He pointed out the style of play and the success of players like him at Cincinnati was important." - RivalsHoops.com


5/13: "After constantly pushing back the announcement of his decision on where he will play college basketball, Bridgton Academy forward Alexander Johnson is now scheduled to make that choice public during a press conference in his hometown of Albany, Ga., on Wednesday night, according to his coach Whit Lesure. Johnson, who is 6 feet 8, 240 pounds, will choose between the University of Cincinnati, Florida State and Connecticut. He initially signed last season with Georgia but did not qualify academically, which led him to Bridgton Academy, which is located in Bridgton, Maine. Lesure said last week that Johnson likely would make his announcement Sunday, but Johnson still is having a hard time making a choice. "He's really wrestling with this," said Lesure. "I think going to college causes you to pause and reflect, and in this case when things didn't work out with Georgia he is really having a tough time with his choice this time around." - Cincy Post

5/13: "Georgia Tech sophomore center Ed Nelson decides he'll transfer to UConn. Nelson said that he telephoned the UConn coaches and told them he was coming. Nelson, the 2002 ACC rookie of the year, will have to sit out a year before becoming eligible for the 2004-05 season." - Hartford Courant

5/12: ". . . we believe that Florida State is going to get both 6'10 Alexander Johnson from North Bridgton (Bridgton Academy) ME, who is the #8-ranked 5th year player by the Hoop Scoop, and 6'8 Linas Kleiza from Rockville (Montrose Christian) MD, who is ranked #21 nationally in the senior class by the Hoop Scoop." - Hoop Scoop

5/12: "The much traveled Alexander Johnson 6-9 235-pound power forward from North Bridgton, ME Bridgton Academy has made trips to Connecticut, Cincinnati, and Florida State. He graduated last weekend and has gone home with his parents to Albany, GA to review his recruiting and make his final decision by Wednesday! His Prep School Head Coach Whit Lesure relayed this too us over the weekend, "He has it down to three schools Florida State, Connecticut, and Cincinnati. He felt that Florida State and Connecticut might have an edge over Cincinnati, because of their proximity to his prep school (home away from home) and his home back in Georgia. I know one thing, I told him to make sure whichever school he decides on, is his final choice, and to send the National letter of Intent to that school!" - HoopMasters.com

5/11: "Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure told RivalsHoops.com Sunday night that Alexander Johnson will likely sign a letter of intent by 7 PM ET this Wednesday. Johnson is still trying to figure out which school is best for him -- Connecticut, Cincinnati, or Florida State. - RivalsHoops.com

5/10: "The decision was expected to come today from Alexander Johnson, but the prized University of Connecticut men’s basketball recruit didn’t seem close to a final decision on Friday afternoon.
Johnson is a 6-foot-8, 240-pound power forward regarded as one of the top remaining prep players yet to sign with a college. Johnson told the Register last week that UConn had taken the lead over Florida State and Cincinnati, but Friday he said that he was unsure about where he is headed. "They’re all even," Johnson said. "I’m still undecided, and I don’t know if I’m ready to announce yet."

Johnson will graduate from Bridgeton Academy in Maine today. It was expected that he would let the coaches at UConn, Florida State and Cincinnati know today of his final decision before heading home to Albany, Ga., on Sunday. "I may take some more time and talk to my mom about it when I get home," Johnson said.

There has been speculation that Florida State would re-emerge as Johnson’s favorite because of the Tallahassee school’s proximity to his hometown. But Johnson said Friday being close to home won’t help him make his final decision. Speculation Friday had Johnson delaying his decision because of a late push to get involved in the process by new North Carolina coach Roy Williams.

UConn is expected to get a commitment from Georgia Tech 6-8, 250-pound power forward Ed Nelson by Monday. Nelson would have to sit out next season before being eligible for the 2004-05 season. - New Haven Register

5/9: "Not sure if this (Roy visiting AJ) is true. His coach didn't say anything about UNC and I just talked to him a couple hours ago." - Dot Com, Warchant.com

5/8: "I am pretty excited in having UNC and Coach Williams interested, this process has been very difficult and I was close to making a decision but I will hold off to see how the visit goes with Coach Williams." - Alexander Johnson (from the North Carolina Insiders site and JJHuddle.)

5/8:
http://floridastate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=185750
"Alexander Johnson will likely make his decision public this Sunday from his home in Albany, Georgia. "It looks like the plan is for him to sign Wednesday," Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure told Warchant.com. "He may very well give a verbal this weekend, Monday at the latest but it looks like Sunday." - Warchant.com

5/8: "Two of the nation's top unsigned big men Alexander Johnson and Lucasz Obrzut graduate this weekend then, they will make decisions on their college choices before May 15th! Former Georgia signee, Alexander Johnson 6-9 235-pound power forward and former Fordham signee, 7-2 240-pound Lucasz Obrzut will graduate from Bridgton Academy in North Bridgton, ME this Saturday. Both have met all their academic requirements and have qualifying test scores. They were both released from their former National Letters-of-Intent and are ready to pick new college destinations. Alexander Johnson has had the highest profile of the two since breaking onto the national scene at the "War on the Shore" in December. He says its time to make a decision about where he will play college ball, and will announce his decision this Sunday Night, May 11th! He will choose from among three finalist Florida State, Cincinnati, and Connecticut. This writer's gut feeling is that he will end up at Florida State because of its proxomity to his home back in Georgia." - HoopMasters.com

5/8:
http://www.cincypost.com/2003/05/08/uchoop05-08-2003.html

5/7: "Highly regarded 6-foot-9 forward Alexander Johnson of Bridgton Academy in Bridgton, Maine, is expected to decide this weekend where he will play college basketball, according to Bridgton coach Whit Lesure. The University of Cincinnati is one of three schools in the running for Johnson along with Connecticut and Florida State. "He says they're all about equal so he has a lot of thinking to do," said Lesure. "He likes them all, so it's been really tough on him." According to Lesure, after Johnson graduates from Bridgton on Saturday he is going to return to his hometown of Albany, Ga., to make his decision and might even have a press conference there Sunday to announce his choice." - Cincy Post

5/6: "Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure told RivalsHoops.com today that Connecticut, Cincinnati, and Florida State will have to wait until this weekend for offensive forward, Alexander Johnson's decision. "I just spoke to him," Lesure told RivalsHoops.com on Tuesday afternoon. "He told me he will go home, talk to his family, and then sign his letter." Is there a leader? "He told me he didn't have a leader," Johnson said. "So all the schools are still being considered. As I have said before, it's a very tough and difficult decision. They are all great schools. Alexander would do well at any of them." - www.RivalsHoops.com

5/3: "I just spoke to Alexander," said Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure. "He is in the process of thinking about where the best school for him is. He has three great schools. They all have something different to offer him. This is what Alexander is trying to figure out. He isn't confused. He is just thinking about where he wants to go and doesn't want to do so until he is sure." - http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/

5/2: "Johnson told the Register on Wednesday that his visit last weekend to UConn put the Huskies ahead of Florida State and Cincinnati. Johnson is a skilled 6-foot-9, 235-pound power forward from Albany, Ga., who prepped at Bridgton Academy in Maine last season. "UConn has pulled ahead," Johnson said. "I had a very good feel being with the team last weekend. I really like coach Calhoun and they could be the No. 1-ranked team in the nation in the preseason and then win a championship."

Johnson didn’t hesitate when asked if he felt he could be the player that solidly pushes the Huskies into the role of a title favorite. "I know I could be that player," Johnson said. Johnson said he expects to make an official announcement by the middle of next week." - New Haven Register

5/1: "I talked to his coach about 10 minutes ago and all three schools are in the mix. They are meeting tonight to discuss this. His coach still thinks there is a good chance he may wait until next week to decide." - www.Warchant.com

4/29: "We also continue to hear that Florida State is the leader for 6'10 Alexander Johnson from North Bridgton (Bridgton Academy) ME, but don't count out Cincinnati and Connecticut just yet." - HoopScoop

4/29: "Coach Jim Calhoun met with Hakeem Rollins, a 6-8, 235-pound forward out of Mesa Community College in Mesa, Ariz., Monday. Calhoun is expected to meet today with forward Mohamed Abukar (6-9, 200) from Rancho Bernardo (Calif.) High School, who averaged 29 points as a senior and is said to have a versatile game." - Hartford Courant

4/28: "Alexander Johnson will make his decision Friday, May 1. The Indiana Hoosiers are no longer among Johnson’s favorites as the talented power forward eliminated them due to a lack of interest. Johnson made a visit to Bloomington earlier this year and had a good visit.

Contrary to previous reports, Johnson said Connecticut is still very much in the hunt along with Florida State and Cincinnati. Johnson said Cincinnati holds a slight advantage because he has been a fan of the Bearcats’ program since he was a kid.

Since joining Bridgton Academy, Johnson says, "My face up game has improved. Inside I’ve always been good." Johnson realizes he still needs to work on his medium range game, but with the ability to run the floor, shoot the 3-pointer and dominate in the post; he will pay immediate dividends for whichever school he chooses.

Johnson was rated as the 26th best high school player in the country last year. He was rated higher than Arizona’s Hassan Adams, Louisville’s Francisco Garcia, and Syracuse’s Gerry McNamara." - HoosierInsider.com

4/28: "Bridgton Academy forward Alexander Johnson, told RivalsHoops.com Monday evening he is going to have a very difficult time in making a decision. "I like all three schools equally," Johnson said. "I had great trips to Cincinnati, Florida State, and Connecticut." Johnson said he isn't close to making a decision. "I hope to have a decision by next Friday," Alexander said. "I have a lot of things to think about before I decide." - http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/

4/27: "It’s a race Alexander Johnson said he will end by next weekend when he chooses between Florida State, Cincinnati and Connecticut. Florida State is believed to be the front-runner. Johnson, a skilled and muscular 6-foot-9, 235-pound power forward who promises to be an immediate impact player, is in the midst of his final visit to UConn. He arrived Friday and spent Saturday hanging out with former UConn and current Miami Heat star Caron Butler, who was on campus visiting his former teammates during Spring Weekend festivities.

Butler and Johnson have a lot in common. Both needed to attend prep school to improve their academic standing and both did so in Maine — Johnson at Bridgeton Academy and Butler at Maine Central Institute.

"He told me how he was in the same situation as me," Johnson said. "He talked about how he had to go to prep school and that he had some problems with the NCAA. "He was also a power forward like me and he told me how Coach (Jim) Calhoun was always honest with him, that you can always trust his word." After attending a Spring Weekend concert Saturday night, featuring rappers 50 Cent and Busta Rhymes, Johnson will return to Bridgeton Academy today.

Johnson, a native of Albany, Ga., has had his name linked to a former guidance counselor in Georgia, who is accused of conspiring to have someone take the Scholastic Assessment Test for Johnson. The alleged incident never took place because the student who was supposed to take the test backed out and alerted school officials. Johnson said Saturday he did nothing wrong and doesn’t expect repercussions from the NCAA. He has earned a qualifying score on the SAT and is eligible to play as a freshman.

Johnson has already visited Florida State, Cincinnati and Indiana. "Everyone is in the same boat except for Indiana, who I’m not considering anymore," said Johnson. "I like all three schools. I’m going to sit down this week and think this thing out."

Johnson said the fact that UConn could be a preseason No. 1 next season wouldn’t impact his final decision. He wants to fit in, but did say that winning is important. "I want to go to a place where I can have fun and be comfortable," Johnson said. "And win games."

Wherever he chooses, it’s a good bet Johnson will start as a freshman. Those who have seen him play say he is a ferocious rebounder but also can handle the ball and has a soft shooting touch with good range. If the choice is UConn, the chance of the Huskies being a preseason No. 1 will increase." - New Haven Register

4/27: "Alexander Johnson knows what he wants. He was in Storrs Saturday to see if he might be able to find it at UConn. "I'm looking to have fun and be comfortable and win games. Be exposed a lot on television," Johnson said. "The most important thing is to make sure I'm having fun and liking where I'm at. Whatever puts me into the best situation where I feel comfortable. I know I'm going to play, no matter where I go. Really, it's just looking for the best situation."

The 6-foot-9, 235-pound forward from Albany, Ga., is perhaps the last high-profile post player available. This is not necessarily by choice. Much has happened to Johnson since he was one of the top players in the Class of 2002. Johnson, who was rated ahead of Ike Diogu (Arizona State) by most recruiting services, signed with Georgia in fall 2001, but he didn't qualify academically. He decided on a year at Bridgton Academy in Maine and again seemed ready to attend Georgia until allegations of academic fraud resulted in the departure of coach Jim Harrick.

Johnson began his search again and has visited Indiana, Florida State, Cincinnati and now UConn. Recent quotes in his hometown paper seemed to indicate Johnson had narrowed his list to Florida State and Cincinnati, but he said Saturday that was not true. "Everybody is in the same boat. Indiana, I'm not considering them no more, just Cincinnati, Florida State and UConn," Johnson said. "I like all three schools. Me and a friend are going to sit down and sort things out."

The unsettled recruiting process has not been the only headache for Johnson this spring. He has also faced allegations that a guidance counselor at a Georgia school paid a student to take the SAT for Johnson. The Athens Banner-Herald reported last month documents show a student was provided with Johnson's social security number, a fake photo ID and planned to take the test in Georgia in December. That student decided not to take the test, the paper reported.

Johnson, who was in Maine when the alleged fraud was supposed to have taken place, said he had no knowledge of any plan to have an imposter take the test. Johnson has taken the SAT and received a qualifying score. "I know I'm innocent. ... It did bother me because I thought I wasn't going to be able to play college ball," Johnson said. "But they can't get nothing on me because I didn't do nothing. I'm not worried about it."

Johnson is said to have all of the skills necessary to play power forward. The Huskies have two scholarships available and are looking for at least one player with size. He met current players Ben Gordon and Emeka Okafor and also ran into Caron Butler, who was visiting the campus. "[Butler] was in the same situation I was in," Johnson said. "He was in prep school and going through the NCAA things like I'm going through. ... He was just telling me how things will work out and telling me how, with Coach Calhoun, if he tells you something, you can take his word." - Hartford Courant

4/27/03: "A Southeastern Conference spokesman said last week that the league does not tell schools not to recruit certain athletes, contrary to information relayed to the high school coach of 6-foot-9 Alexander Johnson.

When the University of Kentucky ended its recruitment of Johnson recently, assistant Reggie Hanson told Johnson's coach that the Wildcats' hand was forced by the SEC. "Reggie told me that the SEC commissioner had instructed them not to recruit Alex due to the circumstances at Georgia," said Whit Lesure, Johnson's coach at Bridgton Academy in Maine. "One minute we're finalizing plans for A.J.'s visit to Kentucky, the next minute Kentucky's out of it."

Johnson -- who signed with Georgia last year but didn't qualify academically -- was interviewed by Georgia as part of the school's investigation into academic fraud under former coach Jim Harrick, and clearly there were concerns from the SEC office about Johnson's eligibility. But Lesure said he was told by Georgia compliance officials that Johnson was 'free and clear' of any wrongdoing.

"We do not advise schools not to recruit an athlete," SEC associate commissioner Charles Bloom said. "We provide schools with information on prospective student-athletes. It's up to the institution to decide if they want to recruit an athlete." The information on Johnson must have been pretty strong for the Cats to suddenly halt their contact with him. Now Johnson is picking from among Florida State, Cincinnati and Connecticut. - Louisville C-J

4/25: ". . . if the Huskies have not filled their two openings by (next weekend), Jim Calhoun will be on the West Coast next week visiting with Hakeem Rollins (6-8, 235) and Mohamed Abukar (6-9, 200)." - Hartford Courant

4/24: "UNC will not be recruiting Alexander Johnson this season." - Dave Telep, Insiders Hoops

4/24: "The Huskies are expecting a visit from Alexander Johnson, a 6-9 forward from Albany, Georgia, who played last season at Bridgton Academy in Maine. Johnson is expected to visit Friday though he told his hometown newspaper that he had narrowed his list to Florida State and Cincinnati." - Hartford Courant

4/23/03: RivalsHoops reports that Johnson will visit Connecticut this weekend, despite the Albany Herald report that Johnson is down to just FSU and Cincinnati. Rivals also reported that Jim Calhoun met with Johnson today at his prep school.

4/22: "Former Dougherty High School center Alexander Johnson has narrowed his list of potential colleges to Florida State and Cincinnati. Johnson, considered one of the nation's top prep players yet to sign for next season, said he still plans to visit Connecticut next weekend, but it's basically a two-team race for the highly sought-after 6-foot-10 prospect. "I like both of them," he said. "I don't know who I want right now. I'm getting closer and closer to deciding."

The fall before his senior season at Dougherty, Johnson chose Georgia over Cincinnati. He failed to qualify academically and is enrolled at Bridgton Academy in Maine. Johnson said he has since scored a 920 on the SAT, and will be eligible for next season when he receives his diploma on May 10.

Johnson said he'd like to wait until then to decide. He has until the end of the spring signing period on May 15 to choose a school. He visited Cincinnati this past weekend and said it "was pretty good." The Bearcats have heavily recruited Johnson since his high school days. Johnson grew up a Cincinnati fan and still admits he has a soft spot for coach Bob Huggins' Bearcats. "It's like the girl you always liked," Johnson said. "There's just something about Cincinnati."

Florida State was a late entry into the race for Johnson, but the Seminoles gained ground last month when Georgia stopped recruiting him because of allegations that former Colquitt County High School guidance counselor Ernest Shanks paid a student to take the SAT for Johnson in December.

Seminoles coach Leonard Hamilton has already signed a strong recruiting class, led by small forward Vakeaton Wafer, a Parade All-American from Texas. Johnson visited Tallahassee on April 11 and raved about the trip. "I love Florida State," he said. "I love the players. I love the environment, the community. I like everything about it. It's just a tough decision. I've been in love with Cincinnati since I was coming up through high school."

Indiana was among Johnson's favorites, but the Hoosiers haven't kept in contact as much lately and have faded out of the picture, Johnson said. Florida, Kentucky and Mississippi State were also possibilities until the Southeastern Conference asked member programs to stop recruiting Johnson because of the Shanks scandal. The past season at Bridgton, Johnson worked on his outside shot, which boosted his already lofty stock. In 2002, the recruiting web site rivals.com ranked Johnson as the fifth best power forward in the nation, right behind North Carolina's Sean May and Chris Bosh of Georgia Tech. - Albany (GA) Herald


4/21: "Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure told us this afternoon that Alexander Johnson, a top 25 player in the 2003 class, had a very good trip to Cincinnati this past weekend. "He enjoyed it a lot," Lesure said. “But he is going to take his last visit this weekend." - http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/

4/21: "Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure told RivalsHoops.com that his star player, Alexander Johnson, finished up his official visit to Cincinnati. "He likes Cincinnati a lot," Lesure said. "He has always liked Cincinnati. But as of tonight, he hasn't made a decision." If Johnson decides not to make a decision now, he is likely to take an official visit to Connecticut this weekend. "This is what he has told me he plans on doing," Lesure said. "But after coming off a visit he has some things to think about. So he might take a day or two before deciding on what he does next." - RivalsHoops

4/19/03: "There is nothing in Alexander Johnson's background that would prevent the University of Cincinnati or any other school from signing the 6-foot-9 forward to a letter of intent, said Whit Lesure, Johnson's coach at Bridgton (Maine) Academy. Kentucky withdrew from the competition for Johnson earlier this week after Southeastern Conference commissioner Mike Slive issued an edict preventing all SEC schools from recruiting him. "It's my feeling that there's nothing any NCAA school is going to have to worry about once they get the facts straight," Lesure said.

Johnson, an Albany, Ga., native, originally signed with Georgia out of high school, but when he failed to qualify academically as a freshman, he enrolled at Bridgton. He's visiting UC this weekend. Johnson has visited Indiana and Florida State and is scheduled to visit Connecticut next weekend. Lesure said Johnson's plan is to complete all of his visits before making his decision the first weekend in May.

The SEC's concerns apparently stem from Johnson's SAT college entrance exam, Lesure said. It is alleged another student was asked to take the exam for Johnson. Johnson has proved to be a capable student at Bridgton, according to Lesure, and has achieved the test scores he needs to play next season. "He's the best calling card I've got," Lesure said. "He's a success story."

Johnson averaged 25 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and five blocked shots for Bridgton this past season. "He's a dominant, physical, inside kid," Lesure said, "with the ability to step out to the 3-point line and make plays by scoring, putting it on the floor or passing. You could say he was a power forward, but he's such a physical kid he could play center." Lesure said he has no inkling which school Johnson will choose. This is his second recruiting visit to UC, which also recruited him out of high school. "(Bob) Huggins has the longest-standing relationship," Lesure said. "That's significant." - Enquirer.com

4/18/03: Alexander Johnson was on Cincinnati's campus today.

4/16/03 (8pm) : "Highly-touted power forward Alexander Johnson of Bridgton Academy will make his decision on the weekend of May 1, according to Bridgton Academy Head Coach Whit Lesure. Johnson’s four finalists are Indiana, Cincinnati, Connecticut and Florida State." - http://indiana.theinsiders.com/

4/16: "Johnson's status changed almost by the hour yesterday. The forward from Bridgton Academy in Maine had set up a visit to UK next week. But then Bridgton coach Whit Lesure learned from UK assistant Reggie Hanson that the Cats no longer could recruit Johnson.

SEC commissioner Mike Slive told UK to back off Johnson because of concerns about his alleged involvement in the academic fraud investigation at Georgia that led to former coach Jim Harrick's resignation.

Johnson signed with Georgia last year but didn't qualify academically and enrolled at Bridgton. While Johnson now is fully qualified, the link between the forward and Georgia has cost any SEC school a chance to recruit him." - Louisville C-J

4/16/03: "The University of Kentucky recruiting loss may lead to the University of Cincinnati's gain. That's because early Tuesday afternoon UK assistant basketball coach Reggie Hanson informed the coach of highly regarded recruit Alexander Johnson that UK was going to be unable to recruit Johnson after an edict was handed down from Southeastern Conference commissioner Mike Slive preventing SEC schools from recruiting Johnson.

That could be a big boon for UC, because Johnson, a 6-foot-9 forward from Bridgton Academy in Bridgton, Maine, is likely going to make UC his final recruiting visit this weekend and then choose between UC, Florida State and Indiana. He has already visited Florida State and Indiana and had planned to visit UK a day or so after visiting UC.

Johnson's coach at Bridgton, Whit Lesure, told The Post on Monday that he was trying to schedule the date and time for Johnson's visit to UK, but was waiting on a final word from Hanson. Lesure said Hanson called him around noon Tuesday to tell him UK would be unable to recruit Johnson. "One minute we were finalizing plans on his visit and the next they say they're told they can't recruit him," said Lesure.

It's unclear why the SEC sent out its edict, but perhaps it has something to do with an investigation into Georgia's program stemming from Jim Harrick's tenure as coach there. Johnson, a native of Albany, Ga., had signed with Georgia as a high school senior, but didn't qualify academically, which led him to Bridgton.

Lesure had said last week that Johnson is now academically eligible and that he was, "free and clear of any problems related to Georgia." That's why Tuesday's edict caught Lesure off guard. "What I suspect happened is that UK was getting a visit and other SEC schools weren't and some of the other schools complained," said Lesure. "My perception is some of those schools were waiting to hear something official from the SEC before going after A.J. and Kentucky had already beaten them to the punch." - Cincinnati Post


4/16: "Florida State may have to wait well into the late signing period for the word from Alexander Johnson. Whit Lesure, Johnson's coach at Bridgton Academy in Maine, said Tuesday the 6-foot-10 forward still intends to make scheduled trips to national powers Cincinnati, Kentucky and Connecticut and has targeted the first weekend in May to sign a national letter of intent. The signing period begins today and runs until May15. Johnson, one of the nation's top unsigned post players, visited FSU over the weekend. He also has visited Indiana.

Lesure said he stressed honoring commitments before helping Johnson set up his trips, warning him that he didn't want to be part of the process unless he followed through with the visits. But Lesure conceded the pressure of the situation could wind up changing the timetable. "That's the only conceivable way you could see him ending something early," Lesure said. "And I've seen kids do that. But my hope is that there's enough support coming from me and his family. He's got a plan and he's following through with it." - Tallahasse Democrat

4/15: "The (UConn) Huskies are expecting a visit April 25 from Alexander Johnson, a 6-9 forward from Georgia who played at Bridgton Academy in Maine." - Hartford Courant

4/15: (evening) "Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure told RivalsHoops.com that his star player, Alexander Johnson, will NOT be taking a visit to Kentucky. "Kentucky has called me," Lesure said. "They told me the SEC office told them not to recruit AJ. While it's not shocking news, it's essentially ridiculous. . . . He's going to visit Cincinnati now, this weekend," Lesure said." - RivalsHoops

4/15: "Alexander Johnson is still expected to visit UK next week despite Internet reports to the contrary. Johnson visited Florida State last weekend and is slated to visit the University of Cincinnati this coming weekend, according to his coach, Whit Lesure. Several Internet reports said Johnson, who is also considering Indiana, would make his decision following that visit, but Lesure said Johnson still is going to visit with UK coaches sometime the following week. "I'm still trying to set up a date with (assistant coach) Reggie Hanson, but he's still interested in Kentucky for sure," said Lesure. "I've been putting fires out all day on that one. He definitely hasn't eliminated Kentucky. It's amazing how these rumors get going." - Enquirer.com (4 to 5)

4/13: "Johnson, a native of Albany, Georgia, made an official visit to FSU over the weekend and from all indications enjoyed his two days in Tallahassee. "It was great," Johnson, who was hosted by guard Nate Johnson, told Warchant.com. "I toured the campus, hung out with the guys and coaches. To me it was kind of similar to Indiana except Tallahassee is closer to home. Other than that they are the same, really."

If you are wondering why Johnson is considering FSU along with more traditional basketball powerhouses like Indiana, Kentucky, Cincinnati and Connecticut look no further than head coach Leonard Hamilton. "He's one of the coolest and most experienced coaches I've ever met," Johnson said. "He knows a lot of stuff, he's cool, he keeps it going and he's nice to be around. He showed me a good time. He's just like a father the way he treats his players. He's a good man."

In addition of hitting it off with the 'Noles' head basketball coach, the highlight of Johnson's trip was getting a close look at the new 10-million dollar practice facility. "That really caught my eye," he said. "That's NBA-type stuff."

The RivalsHoops.com No. 5 rated power forward has already visited Indiana (3/28) and will trip to Cincinnati this weekend. Although he is scheduled to make an official visit to Connecticut at the end of the month he may not make it that far. "I really think after my Cincinnati visit I think I'll go ahead and make my decision," said Johnson, who now lists FSU, Indiana and Cincinnati as his top three teams. "They are all in the same boat. All three schools are great and I know I can start. I don't want to be too close to home but also I don't want to be too far away from home. I want to be around somebody that's going to push me, get on me every time I'm slacking." - WarChant.com (FSU)

4/11: "The University of Kentucky and University of Cincinnati basketball teams may not be facing each other on the basketball court in the near future, but they're in the process of doing battle off the court for two recruits. Alexander Johnson is a multi-faceted 6-foot-9 senior forward from Bridgton Academy in Bridgton, Maine, while 6-foot-2 guard Chris Lofton is a junior at Mason County (Ky.) High School.

Johnson, who went to high school in Albany, Ga., originally signed with Georgia out of high school, but failed to qualify academically. His coach at Bridgton, Whit Lesure, said academics are no longer a problem for Johnson. "He's an intelligent kid,'" said Lesure. "In this setting he doesn't have the other distractions. He was a 'C' student there because of the distractions, but he's close to an 'A' or 'B' student here. He may have been a mediocre student there, but I've found out there's nothing about A.J. that's mediocre."

Lesure said there's been a misconception about Johnson because of his academic problems and with being involved in originally signing with a program as troubled as Georgia. "The perception is this would be another dumb kid from the South," said Lesure. "I told A.J. you can keep your mouth shut and lead people to their own conclusion or you can look like a champion and take some people out by telling them how it really is, but he said, 'Coach, I'm just going to shut my mouth.'

"That's the type of kid he is. He's just a really quiet, respectful, polite guy."

Lesure said UC coach Bob Huggins is expected to visit Johnson on April 19 or 20, while UK coach Tubby Smith is expected to make a visit on April 21. He said Johnson is expected to visit UK on April 25.

Johnson, who can play in the low post and also float to the perimeter effectively, according to Lesure, is expected to visit Florida State this weekend. He has already visited Indiana.

Lesure said the chance to earn immediate playing time is expected to be a major consideration for Johnson. UC has two frontcourt starters returning, plus two key frontcourt subs and is adding Florida transfer James White, a forward, and junior-college transfer Robert Whaley, a center. UK may need immediate help inside if center Marquis Estill opts to turn pro or doesn't graduate by August. Estill can earn another season of eligibility if he graduates by then." - Cincinnati Post


4/11/03: "Prep school big man Alexander Johnson, a former top-30 national prospect, plans to make a recruiting visit to Kentucky later this month. Meanwhile, UK remains in the running for two high school big men, Darryl Watkins of Paterson, N.J., and James Lang of Birmingham, Ala.

Johnson, Georgia's Class AAAA Player of the Year in 2002, originally signed with Georgia. After not gaining academic eligibility, he enrolled at Bridgton (Maine) Academy. Johnson, a 6-foot-9 center-forward, plans to visit UK the weekend of April 25-27. He visited Indiana last month. He's visiting Florida State this weekend. Cincinnati and Connecticut are also on his list.

Opportunity to play immediately will be a big factor in Johnson's college choice, Bridgton Coach Whit Lesure said. "Huge," Lesure said. "That's one of the things 'AJ' is most focused on." For instance, Florida State needs a big man to complete its recruiting year, Lesure said. "Common sense tells you this kid fills the bill," the Bridgton coach said, "and it's somewhat close to home." Johnson, who averaged 25 points and 13 rebounds this past season, is from Albany, Ga.

Kentucky also is looking for a big man. UK loses senior Jules Camara and is not expecting the team's other big man, Marquis Estill, to return next season. As a partial qualifier three years ago, Estill could gain another season of eligibility by graduating before the fall semester. He's also weighing an entry into the June NBA Draft.

Johnson, who was presumed headed to Georgia, began looking for another school in the aftermath of charges of impropriety in Jim Harrick's program. Harrick resigned under pressure last month.

Georgia and NCAA officials are investigating whether members of the Bulldogs basketball coaching staff helped arrange for someone else to take a college entrance exam for Johnson in December.

Ernest Shanks Jr., a former guidance counselor at Colquitt County High School in Moultrie, resigned in January after school officials there accused him of offering to pay another student to take the SAT in Johnson's name.

Lesure said Johnson was unaware of any such arrangement. The player had gained academic eligibility this school year by scoring a 920 on a SAT and getting "As" and "Bs" as a Bridgton student, Lesure said. "I trust him to no end," the coach said. "He was a high school kid not doing more than he had to do. He's taken advantage of the situation here where there's nothing else to do. He's not just an idiot kid from Albany, Ga." - Lexington Herald


4/10/03: "Former Georgia commitment Alexander Johnson is scheduled to visit Florida State this weekend. Johnson, considered one the nation's top players, averaged 25 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks a game this season while leading Bridgton Academy to a 25-7 record. Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton has made a recruiting impact with his signing of small forwards Antonio Griffin from Scottsdale Community College and McDonald's All-American Vakaeton "Von" Wafer from Heritage Christian. Hamilton has also landed some inside help with Diego Romero from Lon Morris College. But after a season where FSU suffered from a severe lack of rebounding, the key to this year's recruiting class may be landing a big man who can dominate in the paint on both ends. Just a few short weeks ago the field seemed to be limited with FSU having little hope.

This has changed when Alexander Johnson, formerly a UGA commitment, announced that he was going to visit five schools -- Cincinnati, Indian, Connecticut, Kentucky, and Florida State -- before making a decision where he would play his college career. Johnson is from Albany, Ga., where he played prior to this season when he attended Bridgton Academy in Maine. The 6-10, 235-pound forward averaged 25 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks a game this season while leading his team to a 25-7 record. Johnson was ranked as the No. 14 prospect in the nation by the Sporting News after averaging 28 points and 16 rebounds as a junior at Albany (Ga.) Dougherty High, where he led his team to the Class 4A state title.

Johnson has already experienced the serious recruiting process one time before as he was courted by schools such as Cincinnati, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisville before committing to Jim Harrick's University of Georgia Bulldogs. He failed to academically qualify and spent the last year in Maine at a prep school where he was capable of obtaining a 920 SAT score which allows him to play at any Division I school this coming fall. With the recent problems UGA basketball has faced, Johnson is now on the road experiencing the recruiting process again.

From the end of March until the end of April, Johnson will be very busy. His coach, Whit Lesure, expects that he will make official visits to all five schools before making a decision. He has already visited Indiana and Bridgton Academy Coach Whit Lesure was quoted as saying it was a "good visit". In regards to Connecticut, Lesure expressed that Johnson's view is that they have a great program and that Johnson has been really impressed by the coaches. Cincinnati, a school he visited in 2001, is a school that has been recruiting him hard since the first go-around and has the possibility of stepping in to play immediately there. Kentucky - visits April 25 -- has just seriously began to make an effort but with the fantastic team that coach Tubby Smith has produced the last few years and the history of Kentucky basketball there is a lot to offer.

You would think with the impressive array of teams that are after the Insiders No. 50 ranked player of 2002 that the ACC cellar dweller FSU would not be in the running. This is not the case as the view upon FSU is that Hamilton has already shown a great deal of interest and he has the opportunity to enter the program and start immediately. Johnson is also looking to play against great competition and he would get that with ACC opponents night in and night out. Despite all of this, the most significant attribute going for FSU is that it is very near Johnson's home of Albany and that he has already shown an interest in playing near home in his original commitment to Georgia. "I just decided I might as well stay in Georgia, because there's no place like home," Johnson said of that decision. Due to the fact that his visits will not be done until nearly May , Johnson will force his schools to sweat out the hope of landing him as a commitment as much as a month beyond the first day of the late signing period, which kicks off on April 15th.

After his year at Bridgton Academy in Maine, where a lot of his competition was against Division I caliber players, he has been referred to as an improved player since he left Dougherty High. In the last year he has muscled up adding around 20 pounds. He is described as a ruggedly built, extremely athletic and skilled player who has finally begun to put the pieces together and is now playing consistently, according to The Insiders Dave Telep. Some questions have surfaced in regards to Johnson involved with a scandal dealing with the fallout at the University of Georgia following Harrick's dismissal. Accusations of someone taking Johnson's SAT's and being paid for it were made but Lesure stated that "A.J. is free and clear of any problems related to Georgia."

If FSU is able to land the Insiders four-star ranked power forward Johnson, or even Linas Kleiza who is expected to commit to Missouri but took an official visit to Florida State in October, that will cap an amazing class for second year coach Leonard Hamilton and will show how he has effectively restructured the Seminoles into a team that can compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference. – Florida State Insiders

http://www.uncbasketball.com/stories/040901_johnson.shtml

4/9: "Make no mistake about it, Alexander Johnson will take all five of his visits this spring before deciding on his college destination. Coach Lesure gave us a quick snap shot of positives each school has according to Alexander.

Florida State: Closest to his home with opportunity to start (Still has to visit)
Indiana: Great opportunity to play right away really liked Coach Davis on visit
Cincinnati: Have recruited him the longest and hardest. Has opportunity to step in and play. (still has to visit)
Connecticut: Says they have a great program and really likes the coaching staff.
Kentucky: Tremendous program with opportunity to play next season. (Still has to visit). - HoopMasters.com.


4/9: "Two of the nation's best unsigned big men plan to take official visits to the University of Kentucky in the coming weeks. Alexander Johnson, a 6-foot-9 forward from Bridgton Academy in Maine, and Darryl Watkins, a 6-11 center from Paterson (N.J.) Catholic, intend to tour UK's campus before deciding where they'll sign. A third big man, 6-10 center James Lang from Central Park Christian in Birmingham, Ala., remains interested in the Wildcats, his mother said.

"A.J. is free and clear of any problems related to Georgia," (his prep coach Whit) Lesure said. "You never know with the NCAA, but I don't think there's anything to be cautious about at this point. He's talked to the Georgia compliance people and that's that. A.J. has paid a lot of attention to the Georgia fallout as to the extent the Southeastern Conference might be concerned, as I'm sure Kentucky has. But I don't think it's going to be an issue." Johnson is planning to visit UK on April 25. Lesure said one of UK's coaches is expected to visit Johnson in Bridgton on April 21." - Louisville C-J


4/5: With one scholarship to fill for next season, University of Cincinnati basketball coach Bob Huggins is focusing his spring recruiting efforts on 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward/center Alexander Johnson from Bridgeton (Maine) Academy. Johnson, originally from Albany, Ga., signed with Georgia out of Dougherty High School but enrolled at the prep school after failing to qualify academically to play as a freshman.

UC and Indiana are the frontrunners for him, according to recruiting analyst Clark Francis. Johnson has scheduled a visit to UC for the weekend of April 19. "He's athletic and he's got some skills," Francis said. "But he needs to play harder. He needs Huggins to push him. He's probably the best available high school big man." Johnson already has visited Indiana and also has visits to Connecticut and Florida State scheduled.

The Bearcats, who were thin along the front line this past season, signed junior-college center Robert Whaley last fall. The addition of Johnson, along with Florida transfer James White, who will be eligible in December, would give them depth at the forward and center positions. Starting forward Jason Maxiell, part-time starting center Kareem Johnson and reserve center Rod Flowers all return next season.

Johnson made an official visit to Cincinnati in November 2001 before he chose Georgia. "They're no stranger to him," Francis said. "They know what they're getting. He probably needs Huggins more than Huggins needs him. If he wants to play in the NBA, he needs to go someplace where he's going to be pushed. He could put Cincinnati right back where they want to be." - Enquirer.com

4/3/03: "The No. 1 recruiting target (of UConn) is Alex Johnson, a 6-foot-9-inch, 235-pound power forward out of Bridgton Academy in Maine. Considered the best available high school frontcourt player, he's planning to make an official visit to UConn the weekend of April 18-20.

Bridgton coach Whit Lesure called Johnson the most dominant player in New England Prep School Class A this season. Johnson averaged 25 points and 13 rebounds while leading Bridgton to a 25-7 record. “He's a heck of a prospect...,” Lesure said Wednesday. “Some people show right away in prep school who they're going to be later on. A.J. is one of those guys. People are going to remember what he did in prep school when they see him on television like they remembered (former St. Thomas More standout and ex-North Carolina Tar Heel) Ed Cota and (former UConn All-American) Caron Butler up at Maine Central. He's a dominant physical presence on the floor. For a big kid as overpowering as he is, he's very well coordinated and agile. He can play basketball. He's not just a thug on the court. He has good feet. He has a good touch. He can make moves. Not all inside guys can do that. ... He's the second best shooter on the team.”

The Huskies just recently re-entered the Johnson sweepstakes. Johnson, who's from Albany, Ga., was all but a lock to sign with Georgia until the turmoil there cause him to drop the Bulldogs from contention. Still, there's some stiff competition for Johnson. He took a trip to Indiana last weekend and also plans to visit Florida State this weekend and go to Cincinnati and Kentucky following his UConn trip. He's already met freshmen eligibility requirements. Each school has something attractive to offer Johnson, according to Lesure who added there's no clear favorite. Florida State is only a couple of hours from Johnson's home and gives him a chance to be part of the rebuilding process. Playing time is available at Indiana, which has a thin returning frontcourt. Coach Bob Huggins at Cincinnati has a reputation for developing power players for the NBA. Kentucky is, well, Kentucky.

And then there's UConn. “Connecticut has maybe the best returning team of all the teams we're talking about and is simply looking to find the final pieces to the puzzle to be a contender for (the national) championship next year,” Lesure said. “That's where Indiana was last year. It's where Florida State wants to get to. Maybe in addition to that they're saying A.J. come in here with (Emeka) Okafor, a player-of-the-year candidate, that spotlight helps you and by the way we have good guards that will get you the ball. There's something attractive there. Each of the schools genuinely offers him something. A.J. is going to have a tough decision.”

According to Lesure, campus visits will play a big role in Johnson's decision. He's advised Johnson to take all his trips before signing with a program but didn't rule out that the search could end sooner rather than later. “If he goes to UConn and he loves it and says this is where I've got to go, then he's foolish to wait too much longer," Lesure said. “That goes for the other schools, too.” - The Day (Eastern Conn.)

4/1: "Alexander Johnson 6-9 245 PF North Bridgeton, ME Bridgeton Academy This former Georgia signee has really come a long way over the past twelve months. He has a more consistent jumper from around arc and has quicks and explosion to score with dunk or clean glass with regularity. He is a double-double waiting to happen at the high major level. He just visited Indiana and will visit Florida State, then Cincinnati, Connecticut, and maybe Florida or Kentucky." - Hoopmasters

3/31/03: "Today we caught up with Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure and got the quick skinny on his star player's official visit this past weekend to Indiana. "I have spoken with A.J. and it was a very positive visit," said Lesure. "Enjoyed everything about it. He has had a good rapport with Mike (Davis) and I think that was only solidified. He was very complimentary towards Mike and the other guys on the staff. Jim Thomas has recruited him some and met with him. He spent some time with the players and I did not get into details, but he thought it was a real good situation."

The coach went through the top schools besides Indiana at the moment for Johnson. "Cincinnati, Florida State, Connecticut is back into the picture, in light of the Georgia situation, and Florida still very much wants him to visit as well," said Lesure. "This visit solidifies his seriousness with Indiana," said Lesure.

Other visits are coming right up. "He's got Connecticut, Cincinnati and Florida State set up," said Lesure. "It appears the order will be Florida State, Connecticut, then Cincinnati," said Lesure.

Since we last did a feature on Johnson, he has received word of a qualifying SAT test score.

Lesure got into an issue that could work against the Hoosiers. "I have also talked to him about proximity to home," said Lesure. "That is an issue obviously. If you are Connecticut and Indiana, you're at least aware that this is a kid from Georgia that has a choice to make about how far he wants to go away from home."
There has been some talk that Johnson would get laser surgery to correct his vision impairment, so we asked Lesure to confirm that. "Something is going to happen and we are certainly working on. . . he's been to one or two specialists in the Georgia area and we are trying to do something up here as well," said Lesure. "Whether it is laser surgery or something else, I am not certain yet."

The coach made it clear that Johnson's decision is likely several weeks away yet. He knows that has its own issues. "The difficult part for the schools is that this kid is not going to be ready to commit on April 16th, the first day of the signing period," said Lesure. "This kid is not going to commit then because he is not going to be finished with all of his visits. Nor do I think it is critical that he does commit. That is understandably going to put pressure on AJ, because schools are going to want to know where they are." The coach put it another way. "You have to expect that there will be some degree of pressure to make a commitment, but you have also made your own commitment that you would honor visits," said Lesure. - Peegs.com

3/25: "Considered the best player left in the 2003 class, Alexander Johnson, a multi-skilled forward from Bridgton Academy in Maine, is likely to visit Indiana University this weekend, according to head coach Whit Lesure. Besides Indiana, Florida, Florida State, and Cincinnati are being considered. Apparently, Kentucky has backed away from the recruiting process. Johnson, who has the ability to hit a three-pointer and thump you with a dunk, is likely also to visit Cincinnati and Florida State. These visits are being set up. Connecticut is also now being seriously considered by Johnson, who is still open in his recruiting process. Despite speculation swirling around Johnson, he has qualified academically and is eligible to play next season on the college level." - http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/

3/21/03: "On Dec. 11, as the Bulldogs were still recruiting Johnson in hopes of getting him in school in January, Ernest Shanks Jr. a guidance counselor at Colquitt County High School, resigned after acknowledging he had a role in giving a Colquitt County student $50 - with the promise of at least $300 more - to take the SAT for Johnson. "We want to know if there's any connection between this effort to falsify a test and any of the university staff," said Athens attorney Ed Tolley, who is heading a joint school and NCAA investigation into allegations of wrongdoing by head coach Jim Harrick Sr. and former assistant coach Jim Harrick Jr.

According to documents obtained by the Athens Banner-Herald through the Georgia Open Records Act, Maureen Yearta, the assistant superintendent of schools in Colquitt County, reported to the county's superintendent that Shanks asked her son on Dec. 6 to take the test as a ''walk-in'' on Dec. 7 in Thomasville.
The student initially agreed and was provided with Johnson's Social Security card and a fake Colquitt County High School picture I.D. prepared by Shanks with the student's picture and Johnson's name. The documents show a copy of both the fraudulent I.D., a Social Security card with Johnson's name and a number on it, and a piece of paper on which someone has practiced signing Johnson's name.
The student was allegedly given the promise of more money if Johnson went on to a career in professional basketball, the documents stated. However, the student decided on Dec. 7 not to take the test and informed his parents of the incident, the documents state.

When Shanks was told of the evidence in the case on Dec. 11, he stated, "there is some truth to it," and gave his resignation, the documents stated. - Online Athens


3/19: "Johnson will likely take visits to Indiana, Cincinnati, Mississippi State — and possibly Florida. Florida State has also recently become involved and could be in the mix." - PrepStars

3/17: (Head Coach Whit) Lesure said - "Right now it looks like he may visit Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, and Mississippi State." - RivalsHoops.com

3/17: "Johnson has Cincinnati, Florida, and Kentucky at the top of his list, plus it also appears that Florida State is making a strong push." - HoopScoop

3/10: "His plan was to take some visits when he comes back from his break," said Bridgton coach Whit Lesure. "He will likely do that. He says he wants to take visits to schools he hasn't seen yet. "Before I thought he might end up at Georgia and the would take a couple of trips to see a comparison. But now he's more serious about those trips and what the schools might be like for him." - RivalsHoops.com (1 to 3)

3/8: Changed height to 6-9, per a good source. - Mike Ryan

3/7: "What We're hearing . . . in the SEC ... Coaches have been told not to recruit former Georgia signee Alexander Johnson out of Maine's Bridgton Academy. The SEC office let it be known that there could be an investigation related to the Georgia case, so it's not worth other SEC schools getting involved with Johnson." -Andy Katz, ESPN

3/4/03: Q & A from www.rivalshoops.com
RH:Can you talk a little about Cincinnati and Georgia. Those are two schools that were both on your list last year. You know a lot about both. Where do they stand on your list?
AJ: I like Georgia. It ain't that far from home. Coach Harrick is a good man. I like how he plays big guys. They don't really have any dominant big men, but I still like his style of coaching. I am not going to base my decision on liking the coach. I just like how the program is. It's close to home, I'm from Georgia, so that's one of the biggest things right there.

RH: How did Cincinnati get back into the picture?
AJ: Coach Keith Legree never gave up. That made me feel good on the inside. That showed me loyalty. And when I was coming up in the ninth and tenth grade, it was my dream to go to Cincinnati. But then things got shaky, and I started to dislike them. That was my dream. I liked how they played Kenyon Martin. And Bob Huggins can coach. He has been recruiting me since my 10th grade year. That means a lot to me. It's not like they just started recruiting me this year like a lot of the schools.
(this interview was conducted just 24 hours prior to the recent allegations surrounding the Georgia Bulldog men's basketball program...) - RivalsHoops.com


2/28: "South Carolina Head Coach Dave Odom was in the building to take a look at New Hampton's Femi Ibikunle and Bridgton's Alex Johnson." - RivalsHoops

2/28/03: "Johnson said he is now considering Georgia, Indiana, Cincinnati, Florida, Kentucky and Mississippi State. He said he plans on taking official visits to four of the colleges after the season -- Indiana, Florida, Kentucky and Mississippi State. He doesn't plan on taking visits to either Cincy or Georgia, since he burnt official visits on both of those schools a year ago as a high school senior." - www.rivalshoops.rivals.com

2/20: "Four Southeastern Conference schools are among six that have the best chance of landing one of the top unsigned high school senior basketball prospects. Alexander Johnson is actually a fifth-year senior, one who has already signed a letter of intent with an SEC school. That was last year, when the 6-8 power forward inked with Georgia, but did not qualify academically.

Some people think the Bulldogs will still end up with Johnson, who is at North Bridgton (ME) Bridgton Prep School. Alabama, Florida and Kentucky are also in the picture along with Cincinnati and Indiana.

A few weeks ago, Johnson was quoted as saying that Indiana was his leader, adding that Hoosiers coach Mike Davis has done a good job working with big men. Johnson also said that he likes how tough Cincy coach Bob Huggins is on his players. But he has also said he wants to play in the South. Ranked No. 41 in the 2003 class by Prepstars.com, Johnson has said he will visit five schools. He has not yet taken a trip." - Jefferson Pilot Sports

2/14/03: "Johnson said that Indiana, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Kentucky and Cincinnati are hot on his trail. From the sound of it, Indiana and Cincinnati could probably count on a visit." - www.theinsidershoops.theinsiders.com/

1/20/03: "it appears that Georgia leads Cincinnati for his services." - HoopScoop

1/8/03: "The Bulldogs are on the list for the second time around and the hometown team is a factor. "I haven't lost any interest in Georgia." One school he did seem to lose some interest in was Cincinnati. "They were in there early but they backed off. Then, I kind of backed off of them." - www.theinsidershoops.theinsiders.com/

12/9: "Johnson is a 5th year senior who signed with Georgia last year, but was one of three frontcourt recruits who were ruled academically inelligible. Johnson is strong and athletic enough, though he doesn't always assert himself physically in the paint. He has excellent shooting touch and is a threat to score all the way out to the arc. Johnson is wide open right now, though schools like North Carolina, Alabama, Cincinnati, and Georgia (despite their lack of scholarships) have strongly extablished themselves in the process." - Bob Gibbons All Star Report

12/6: "Prior to the War On The Shore, names like Brandon Bass, Patrick Ewing and Linas Kleiza were tossed around as the best available unsigned big men in the Class of 2003. For some reason, Alexander Johnson’s name was left off that list. Now, no list of available big men would be complete without Johnson’s name at or near the top. Having problems placing Johnson? Can’t seem to remember what route he took to Bridgton Academy? Let us help.

Last year as a senior at Albany (Ga.) Dougherty, we ranked the big fella No. 50 on the final Top 100 list at TheInsidersHoops.com. Before the final ranking, we even had him higher than that but during the summer before his senior season was to begin, he didn’t quite dominate the way many expected him. As a result, a few of his peers ascended past him on the recruiting lists. Yes, he had the body, the athleticism and at times he showed flashes, but he seemed to leave you wanting more.

Georgia wisely signed the prospect and held out the hope that he would make it academically. Unfortunately, Johnson wasn’t able to produce a qualifying score on the SAT and that’s just about the time he seemingly went covert on the basketball world.

The 6-foot-9 power forward journeyed north to Bridgton Academy in Maine where he says “ain’t nuttin’ up there but trees.” And of course basketball, which he’s playing at a higher level right now than we’ve ever seen him.

At the War On The Shore, Johnson was dominant at times but consistently good all the time. In his two games at the event, he put up 23 points and 10 rebounds in his first effort and 20 and 9 in his second. However, it wasn’t about points and rebounds.

What was most impressive was the manner by which Johnson went about his business. In prep school basketball, kids are at schools for two main reasons: to get looks by colleges and to correct academic miscues. Winning and competing can sometimes take a back seat at this level. Not for Johnson.

When the game got tight, he muscled up and competed at a level higher than anyone else on the floor. More than once he sternly sealed his man, made a power move to the rim and finished with authority. To the average eye, it might have been just another kid taking care of business, but that wasn’t the case. To us, it seemed like a good player hinging on becoming a great one. Johnson has great tools to work with. He’s ruggedly built, extremely athletic and skilled. He’s seeming to put all of the pieces together and is beginning to play consistently with the kind of game that could one day put cars in the garage and food on the table and it couldn’t come at a better time." - CNN SI / Telep

12/3: "Johnson. . .gave us his list of schools, which also included North Carolina, Alabama, Cincinnati, Duke and Georgia, at the War on the Shore. But it's still our guess that it will work itself out, if, in the end, Johnson once again decides he wants to become a Bulldog." - HoopScoop.com

12/3/02: "I've had some contact with Alabama, Louisville, Indiana, Oregon and Florida State. They've been calling or sending mail, so those are the only guys right now who are recruiting me." - www.rivalshoops.rivals.com

12/3/02: "Big, strong and powerful, Johnson is a commodity. Since Georgia signed five prospects in the fall, looks like there's going to be a mad dash to get involved." - www.theinsidershoops.theinsiders.com/


VISITED NOV 2ND 2001
SIGNED WITH GEORGIA, Summer of 2002

8/21/02: "a talented 6-9, 215 pound power forward/center from Dougherty H.S. in Albany, Georgia who signed a letter of intent with Georgia, will play at Bridgton Academy in Maine during the 2002-2003 season. Johnson, who did not achieve qualifying marks to make himself eligible at Georgia for this season, is hoping to straighten out his classroom situation and improve his game under highly regarded head coach Whit Lesure. Johnson also considered Alabama and Cincinnati during his recruiting process.

Johnson is a much improved player on the offensive end but he has room to grow in this area too. He will play in a league that is strong with high division one players competing against him every night. Johnson possesses many of the physical tools that should help him become a reliable performer in the low post. He is likely to become a great college player with his upside and talent." - www.rivalshoops.rivals.com

11/17/01: (Question to Mike Duncan of Ohio Preps)
"Let me see if I understand: Johnson had verbally committed to the Cincinnati program (to the coaches, not publicly)...then Johnson called a Cincinnati coach at 6:30am on Weds to say he had a change of heart ? Is that what you mean to say ?
(Answer)
"Yes ! He called Cincinnati coach and committed then called early in the morning the next day and changed his mind. To call at 6:30am in the morning is funny." - Ohio Preps

11/16: "No matter which cap Alexander Johnson would have rested upon his head Wednesday morning to declare his college of choice, his mother Gwendolyn would have smiled. That's what mothers are supposed to do. It says so in the manual. They offer support and love for their children even when their decisions score low on the MAI (Mother Approval Index). So if, by chance, Alexander's decision would have resulted in him donning another school's cap — say Cincinnati or Alabama — you can bet Gwen would have boasted the same smile we saw Wednesday morning in the Dougherty High media center. It just wouldn't have been Gwen's real smile. That would have been a shame, too, because of all that was golden about Alexander's big morning, the glow of his mother was certainly worth writing about. So I am. It was truly fitting Gwen was by her son's side because she was the one (other than Alexander himself) who was deprived of sleep on account of this life-altering decision. After tossing and turning with the choice between Cincinnati, Alabama and Georgia, Alexander finally came to a conclusion around 3am. He then woke his mother. "I was asleep, and he came in to wake me up and said, 'I've made up my mind — University of Georgia.' I was so excited. I said, 'Thank God,' and started to jump up in the bed because that's where I wanted him to go." You have to understand something about Gwen. She hates to fly — always has, always will. "I asked him, 'Baby, if you get hurt, how am I going to get to Cincinnati to help you?' and he said, 'Momma, those folks up there would take care of me.' " Alexander was right. They would have taken care of him, probably better than he's ever been taken care of in his life, medically speaking. But there's one thing nobody in Cincinnati or Alabama or anywhere else in this world can do like his momma — cook. "He loves to eat," Gwen said. "That's right," the new Georgia signee said. "Steak and potatoes." In fact, it's momma's steak and potatoes that have Alexander thinking he's a month away from being in proper shape for his senior season, which starts Tuesday against defending Class AAA champion Westover. "Now that he's going to Georgia, we can see that he's taken care of because we can visit him," Gwen said. "We can see how he's doing and make sure he gets everything he needs." Be sure that at the top of Alexander's list of needs once he gets to Athens will be some of momma's home cooking because he'll miss it. She'll be glad to bring it to him, too. It was either that or send it through the mail to Cincinnati which, may the truth be told, the thought of that probably made Alexander's decision an easier one. He might as well eat cafeteria food." - Albany Herald

11/15: "Alexander Johnson, a 6-foot-9 power forward from Albany (Ga.) Dougherty High School, was in the UC column as late as 1am Wednesday, when he called UC assistant coach Keith LeGree to tell him he would sign with the Bearcats. But an hour later, Johnson phoned Georgia coach Jim Harrick to talk about playing for the Bulldogs, to whom he had orally committed in May. Johnson called his high school coach twice. He called two friends. By 3am, Johnson said he had made up his mind, and he called LeGree back around 7am. "I just decided I might as well stay in Georgia, because there's no place like home," Johnson told reporters. - CincyPost.com

11/15: "The 6-foot-10 senior said his decision was a hard one, which left him up all night. He made various phone calls for advice and support. He talked to Georgia coach Jim Harrick at around 5pm on Tuesday and again at around 2am on Wednesday. He called Dougherty's interim basketball coach, Donald Poole, twice, as well as his cousin, Chris Cameron, a former Dougherty standout and Tulane star. Still undecided, he phoned another friend, Anthony Seay. "He's the one who really helped me make my decision," Johnson said. "He's like a brother to me." Harrick said he received a phone call from Johnson Wednesday morning and was told he was still undecided on who to sign with. "I've always been a coach that trusts people," Harrick said. "I told him that he made a commitment to us. If he was going to be a man of his word, he would honor that." Johnson said after he made up his mind he immediately went in to tell his mother. "He woke me and my husband up and said 'Mom, I've made up my mind — University of Georgia,' " said Johnson's mother, Gwendolyn. "I got so happy, I said 'Thank God!' " - Albany Herald

11/15: "Johnson, who was measured at 6 feet 9 this past summer, verbally committed to the Bulldogs last May. But he made an official visit to Cincinnati two weeks ago, and also was getting a lot of interest from Louisville coach Rick Pitino in the last few days. "I just had to do what I had to do," Johnson said about 11am today. "I just kept telling myself there's no place like home so I decided to stay in Georgia. Cincinnati has been in the picture from the beginning. I've always wanted to go to Cincinnati. But I like what Coach Harrick is doing at Georgia." Johnson, ranked the No. 14 prospect in the nation by The Sporting News, averaged 28 points and 16 rebounds as a junior, leading Dougherty High to the Class AAAA state title. Johnson must still pass the ACT or SAT to become academically eligible." - Atlanta Journal-Constitution

11/14: "As late as Tuesday afternoon, he said that the Bearcats led for him." - The Insiders Hoops

11/14: "Alex was the first guy I went to see after I got the job at Georgia in 1999," Harrick said. "He and I have had a great, great relationship since then. I think he's certainly the best big man we've recruited here. He's mature beyond his years. He's a big, physical player with a multitude of skills for a guy of his size, and I'm looking forward to his joining our program next year." - official Georgia site

11/14: Alexander Johnson signed with the Georgia men's basketball team Wednesday morning. The 6-foot-9 forward from Dougherty High School is considered the state's best high school basketball player and one of the top players in the nation. The early signing period for basketball started today and goes through Nov. 21. That was the good news for the Bulldogs, who learned later in the day that Damien Wilkins' appeal for eligibility to the NCAA was denied. Wilkins, who previously played at N.C. State, will have to sit out this year due to NCAA transfer rules. Johnson originally committed to the Bulldogs in May, but took an official visit to Cincinnati two weeks ago. "I think it was better for him to get (the recruiting process) over with,'' said Dougherty coach Donald Poole." - DogBytes, Athens Herald

11/14: "The University of Georgia has landed one of the top high school basketball players in the nation. Dougherty High forward Alexander Johnson signed a letter of intent with Georgia this morning at the school's media center. The six-foot-ten Johnson committed to the Bulldogs back in May. Johnson had second thoughts about his college choice after taking a recent recruiting trip to the University of Cincinnati. Alabama also made a strong effort to land Johnson, but he said he signed with Georgia because it was close to home and his family. Many of the top college basketball coaches in the nation came to Albany to see Johnson play, and since the season ended, to recruit him. But since Dougherty High Coach Charlie Givens was suspended by the school, he has not been able to fend off many of the numerous college recruiters calls and stunts to get his attention. He was being heavily recruited by most of the major teams in the nation, North Carolina, Kentucky, Cincinnati, Memphis, and basically all the teams in the Southeastern Conference and the Atlantic Coast Conferences. - WALB TV

11/14: "The voice recording on basketball recruit Alexander Johnson's cell phone tells you it's "time to go to plan B." That means, you have the option to page him. It seems an appropriate message, though, because the highly regarded 6-foot-9 power forward appears as if he's going with "plan B." That would mean Johnson could sign with the University of Cincinnati instead of with Georgia, where the Albany (Ga.) Dougherty High School star had verbally committed in May. Johnson told the Albany Herald that he expected to announce his signing this morning, the first day of the fall signing period. He told Dave Telep of BlueChipHoops.com on Tuesday morning that he was going to sign with UC, the recruiting analyst said." - Cincinnati Post

11/13: "...he is 6-8 to 6-9. I have not reached him yet....and with Alexander you never know what might happen at the last minute. just giving fair warning here." - Mike Sullivan, Rivals Hoops

11/13: HoopScoop now reports that they "arent so sure" about Johnson's intentions. Apparently Johnson is "one of these guys who tells everybody something different".

11/13: Johnson said his choices have been trimmed to Georgia, Cincinnati and Alabama. “I’d say CINCINNATI leads,” Johnson said." - Insiders Hoops
http://theinsidershoops.theinsiders.com/index.html

11/12/01: Dougherty High standout Alexander Johnson may not be ready to hunker down just yet. The 6-foot-10 senior confirmed Monday he is rethinking his verbal commitment to play basketball for the University of Georgia and might sign elsewhere. The early signing period for basketball starts Wednesday and lasts through Nov. 21. Johnson, arguably the best basketball player to ever come out of Albany, verbally committed to Georgia on May 27. But he said Monday the University of Cincinnati is back on his list of possibilities. He made an official visit to the university the weekend of Nov. 2. He also said he is considering Alabama and North Carolina, both of which have made a late entry into the Johnson sweepstakes. "This signing is killing me," he said. "I sign Wednesday, and it's killing me." When asked if he was considering Cincinnati, Johnson said, "Yeah, I'm thinking about it. I don't know yet. It's between Cincinnati, Georgia and Alabama. North Carolina has been calling and calling ... I don't know." Johnson averaged 28 points and 16 rebounds per game during his junior season as he led the Trojans to a 24-8 record and a Class AAAA state championship. "It all boils down to Wednesday," Johnson said. "I don't want to sign late, so I have to sign Wednesday." Johnson was listed as the 14th top player in the Class of 2002 according to the Sporting News. He made his varsity debut at Dougherty in November of 1998 and averaged 16 points and 12 rebounds in his first season. As a sophomore, he averaged 18 points and 14 rebounds. If he were to change his mind and sign with Cincinnati, he wouldn't be the first player out of Albany to ink with the Bearcats. Former Westover great Dontonio Wingfield signed with Cincinnati in 1993 and played with the Bearcats for one year before entering the 1994 NBA draft." - Albany Herald

11/11: Hoop Scoop is reporting that Alexander Johnson will likely sign with Cincinnati during the November signing period. Coach Keith LeGree is to be given credit for his recruitment, according to the report.

11/9/01- 6'10 Sr PF Alexander Johnson, Albany (Dougherty), who committed to UGA last spring, is visiting other schools. Alex visited the University of CINCINNATI this past weekend. UC was his favorite school his junior year. He plans to visit the University of Louisville next. If this happens, watch out. Rick Pitino has a great reputation, and Alex's best friend is Greg Tinch, who attends UL. Also in the picture are Alabama and UNC." - Georgia Elite Hoops

11/7: "Alexander Johnson, a 6-foot-10 center from Dougherty High School in Albany, said Tuesday night that he is still committed to attend Georgia. Johnson verbally committed to Jim Harrick's Bulldogs in May, but visited Cincinnati this past weekend. Verbal commitments are non-binding. The early signing period for basketball begins next week. "I'm still committed to Georgia," he said. "I'm just checking things out." Johnson said he was unsure whether he will sign during the early period and that he may make more official visits. "I think I may take about three more visits, to Louisville, Alabama and North Carolina," Johnson said. He also said that his trip to Cincinnati was "alright."
"It's like any other visit," Johnson said. "They treat you like you are part of the family. Georgia did the same thing." Johnson was a member of Dougherty's Class AAAA state title team last season and is considered to be the state's top player, and one of the top players in the country. "I'm sure about Georgia," Johnson said. "I think Georgia is still the one." Georgia has one other verbal commitment, as guard Wayne Arnold of Berkmar committed to the Bulldogs last month." - Online Athens

11/7: "A long time ago (in recruiting time), Alexander Johnson, the Albany (Ga.) Dougherty power forward, made a commitment to in-state Georgia. At the time he said that staying close to home was very important and a big reason why he opted to commit to the Bulldogs. His commitment status hasn't changed, but there's a little twist to his situation. "Yeah, I'm committed to Georgia," Johnson said. "I just want to see how the other schools are because I didn't take any visits and wanted to make sure I am making the right decision. I¹m going to take some more visits and whatever program I think is the best, that's where I'll end up." Last weekend, Johnson made an official visit to Cincinnati and it went well. He plans on taking a trip to Louisville the weekend of Nov. 21. The following weekend he¹ll visit Alabama. North Carolina has called him and according to Johnson, they are conducting some preliminary research. "They wanted a transcript," he said. This situation is in its infancy stages and there is no visit set up but Johnson sounds like if the opportunity presented itself he would be interested in making an official trip. Again, the parties have talked but nothing firm has been set up. Johnson said he has already officially visited Georgia. For now, he remains committed to the Bulldogs and is taking the trips to make sure he's comfortable with the situation and is looking for the place he feels most comfortable. That destination could very well be Georgia, but anytime players take visits there's always a chance things could change. Johnson is one of the more athletically gifted forwards in the class. He has the body of a Cadillac and is a proven inside player who is working on his face up game to further increase his effectiveness. He's one of the Top 30 recruits in the country, thus the reason why so many programs jumped at the opportunity to bring him onto campus once it was clear he was entertaining thoughts of looking around." - CNN SI

11/6: "Johnson said he enjoyed his visits to Georgia and Cincinnati but wanted to make sure he leaves all his options open. "I don't know when I will decide," Alexander said. "I just want to find the best coach for me and the best program." Johnson said he is not visiting any school this weekend. But he plans on visiting Louisville, Alabama, and North Carolina over the following three weeks. If he does that, it might be difficult to sign an LOI for the Fall. But there are ways around that. A recruit can sign and have a letter of intent notarized for each school on the final day of the signing period. He then has a period of a couple of weeks to send it in." - Rivals Hoops
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/default.asp

11/5: "As I mentioned this afternoon between 3-6pm on 1360HOMER, Johnson's visit "went fine....he had fun....he likes us". But UC is not holding it's breath, telling me they have "no clue" what he will do, and have no reason to believe anything he says at this point. Keep in mind, he backed out of a verbal to Georgia. UC doesn't know if he will go back to Georgia or how much pressure he's getting to re-commit. I was told, they wouldn't bet a dollar either way on the kid right now. And I was told to be shocked and stunned if they brought anyone else in to visit before signing day next Wednesday." Lance McAllister, 1360 Homer Radio

11/4: "Alexander Johnson, a 6-foot-9 forward from Albany, Ga., arrived for his official visit Friday. A consensus top-30 player who had orally committed to Georgia, Johnson said he was considering a visit to Louisville next week." - Enquirer.com

10/31/01: "Alexander Johnson, a 6-foot-9 forward from Albany, Ga., said Tuesday night that he plans to begin an official recruiting visit to the University of Cincinnati on Friday. Johnson, who has re-opened his recruiting process after orally committing to Georgia, originally was scheduled to travel to UC last weekend. The Dougherty High School standout is generally considered among the top 30 players in the country. He said he has no other visits scheduled." - Enquirer.com

10/30: "Alexander Johnson of Albany (Ga.) Dougherty High is scheduled to visit UC this weekend. He was scheduled to visit UC last weekend, but had a death in his family. Johnson, rated as one of the nation's best at his position, committed to the University of Georgia in May and hasn't said publicly that he has changed his mind." - Cincy Post

10/28: "Alexander Johnson, a 6-foot-9 forward from Albany, Ga., was scheduled to make a recruiting visit to UC this weekend but canceled citing a death in the family. Nothing has been rescheduled." - Enquirer.com

10/26: "The Bearcats are eyeing three bigmen and will only take one of them. 7'0 Keith Butler Philadelphia (Celestial) PA., 7'0 Julius Lamptey Oklahoma (Northeast) OK., or 6'10 Alexander Johnson Albany (Dougherty) GA. All three will visit Cincinnati and showing alot of interest." - Ohio Preps

10/25: "it looks like Johnson has opened things back up, as is evident by the fact that he is planning on making an official visit to Cincinnati in the near future. Actually he was supposed to visit Cincinnati this weekend, but he cancelled that visit yesterday due to a death in the family." - Hoop Scoop

10/20/01: "Alexander Johnson, a 6-9 forward from Albany (Ga.) Dougherty High School, told The Enquirer he plans to make an official visit to UC, as soon as this coming weekend. Johnson had orally committed to Georgia but said he has re-opened his recruiting because “I'm trying to make sure I make the right decision.” He said he has followed UC since Kenyon Martin was a Bearcat and that he likes coach Bob Huggins and the way the team plays. He said he also is considering Alabama, Florida and Georgia. Johnson is ranked No.21 in the country by RivalsHoops.com, No.26 by cnnsi.com and BlueChipHoops.com and No.34 by CBS.Sportsline.com." - Enquirer.com

10/9/01: Listed as the 27th best player in his class. (Chadd Moore-50th) - PrepStars

10/3: Listed as the 26th best player in his class. - BlueChip Hoops

10/1/01: "Alexander Johnson from Albany (Dougherty) GA may be close to reneging on the University of Georgia, but as it stands now his commitment is still firm..." - HoopScoop

7/9/01: "Early Georgia commitment Alexander Johnson measured just 6'7" to edge out a strong field for this year's "Incredible Shrinking Man" award. To his credit, Johnson is showing off some surprisingly developed face up and perimeter skills to go with his dubious award. But don't look for him in the oh-so-body-conscious NBA too soon" - Duke BBall Report

6/6: Consensus #16 player in the USA in his class. - UNCBasketball.com

5/29: "On Sunday, Johnson announced that he intends on signing next year with Jim Harrick and the Bulldogs. "He said he really liked them since his 11th grade year," Gwendolyn Kelly, Alexander’s mother told BlueChipHoops. "That’s where he wanted to go and that’s fine with me. I don’t like traveling too much so I was happy." Johnson ranks as one of the top big men prospects in the class. He’s strong, tough, blocks shot and is athletic. Cincinnati, Memphis and Alabama had been pursuing him. Last year for Albany (GA) Dougherty, he averaged 28 points and 13 rebounds. He’s playing this summer with Team Georgia Elite and will attend the Nike All-American Camp in Indianapolis." - BlueChip Hoops

5/27/01:
http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/052801/dog_0528010043.shtml

5/23: "Last summer, Alexander Johnson (6-10/225) wasn’t anywhere to be found. He made a rare AAU appearance at last year’s Boo Williams event and was rarely heard from since. Now, he’s one of the premier prospects in the entire country. Johnson is athletic and very, very strong. He has the look of Chris Webber-type and he still has a ways to go. Colleges have certainly taken notice. Right now, he’s receiving interest from CINCINNATI, Louisville, Memphis, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and Auburn. Last year, Anthony Rice played for Team Georgia and went on to become the first recruit for John Calipari at Memphis so there’s a natural connection to Johnson. "Right now, I can’t even say much about schools," Johnson said. It appears that he’s very much in the initial stages of looking around the country to see what his options are. He’s taken the SAT but hasn’t achieved a qualifying score to date. "I think that rebounding and scoring are the best parts of my game," Johnson said. "I feel most comfortable playing the three spot." Say what? That’s right, Johnson envisions himself moving over into a combo forward role. His favorite player is Tracy McGrady and that’s who he wants to play like. Having said that, Johnson’s game doesn’t resemble McGrady at all. He’s a potent and strong inside player who probably could be an excellent power forward down the road, but three-man? That seems to be quite a reach. Last year at Albany (GA) Dougherty, Johnson averaged 28 points and was counted on for 16 rebounds a game. He’ll continue to travel this summer with Team Georgia Elite and will showcase his game at the Nike All-American Camp in Indianapolis." - BlueChip Hoops

5/21: "I think Memphis is in a good position with Johnson. Others involved include North Carolina, Miami (FL), Georgia, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, and Alabama. I haven't heard Cincinnati mentioned with him to this point." - J Tiers, AllStar Report

5/10/01: 32nd best junior in the USA. - School Sports.com

5/10: # 28th ranked Junior. He also has Cincinnati as a listed school of interest. - PrepStars (1 to 3)

5/9: #14 Junior. "Wow, what a physical specimen! He has broad shoulders and is looks like a Mercedes in terms of athleticism. And yes, he's a bull around the hoop." - Sporting News

4/10: "A monster for Linzy Davis' squad. Scores, rebounds, blocks shots, takes up space, runs the floor -- yeesh this kid's got a motherlode of potential. The 6-10 C from Albany (GA) Dougherty is a fantastic post presence. A lofty high-major recruit. And it only took one game -- shoot, a couple times up and down the floor -- to draw that conclusion." - PrepStars

4/9: "Somehow, this Cadillac of an athlete missed three dunks in one game. He may never do that again in his life. Really, all you need is one look and it's not difficult to see he's a Top 25 performer. He's strong and bullish when he needs to be. He'll spin in the lane over either shoulder and when he gets to the rim it's time to go home. He likes to put it on the floor from the wing, but didn't convert a lot of those chances. However, the fact that he can do that at his size is scary as he's good and is only going to become better. This post prospect will play at the highest level in college and beyond." - Rivals100Hoops (3 to 1)

3/7: "A true student-athlete whose national stock has risen markedly this season. He's now being wooed by Cincinnati, Memphis, North Carolina, Kentucky, Miami (Fla.), Georgia Tech and many others." - Brick O. (3)

2/19: "North Carolina dropped in last week to watch Johnson score 27 points and grab 17 rebounds. There are several other schools that are also pursuing Johnson or at least evaluating him seriously." - Insiders Report

2/11: lowered 'interest' from a 3 to a 2.

1/31: Louisville got a verbal from Greg Tinch today. With that in mind. . . :

"landing Tinch also could enhance Louisville's chances of getting 6'10 Jr Alexander Johnson from Albany (Dougherty) GA, who ranks #27 nationally in the junior class by the HOOP SCOOP." - HoopScoop, Jan 8th.

1/12/01: "Both his high school coach, Charlie Givens, and his traveling team coach Linzy Davis, rave about Johnson's skills. "He can shoot, he can dribble and he can pass the ball extremely well," Givens said. "I think he's the best player in our area. "He's the best player in the city. Probably the best player in the state."

Davis, who has coached Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Vonteego Cummings, Matt Harpring, Rashaad Carruth, Josh Pace and Anthony Rice, for the Georgia Elite, echoes Givens' sentiments. "Alexander is in a special class," Davis said. "At 6-foot-10, there isn't anyone in the country who has his skills." Davis is especially impressed with Johnson's perimeter game. "He's a good three-point shooter and not just from the college line," Davis said. "He can shoot it from NBA range. He'll hit two three-pointers a game. But he can also do the inside work and dunk on people. "Alexander is right there as one of the top players from our program." Just as glittering as his talent, are his statistics. Johnson is averaging 25 points, 15 rebounds, six assists, five blocks and three steals per game. According to Johnson, he just wants to "control the whole game." "Rebounding, blocking shots, shooting it, handling the ball, posting up and running the floor," said Johnson, on describing his skills. Among the people who have helped him over the years: Chris Cameron, his cousin, who played at Tulane, and Albany Westover star Greg Tinch. Johnson says Tinch always "teases me on my jumper." When Dougherty faced Westover (who has Tinch and 7-footer Marcus Campbell), Dec. 21, Johnson recorded a triple-double — 21 points, 11 rebounds and 11 steals. "He's pretty good at all of it, but we want to work on his mid-range game," Givens said. Johnson hopes to one day play in the NBA, but first comes college. Johnson isn't really worried about it, but the heavy hitters have come out to see him play. "Almost every major college in our area has made contact one way or another," said Givens, who has coached for 20 years. Johnson has become a prime recruiting target for Duke, North Carolina, Memphis, Georgia Tech, Alabama, Auburn, Kentucky, Georgia, Syracuse and Cincinnati. "(Memphis coach John) Calipari has already said that Johnson is the guy he wants," Davis said. But don't expect the recruiting attention to change Johnson much. "He's a real humble kid," Davis said. "His high school coach, Charlie Givens, has done a great job of keeping him disciplined. He's a 'Yes sir, No sir' type. "Alexander has no off-the-court baggage. Some kids have luggage galore of problems. He's on track to qualify academically. "As an individual on and off the court, you'll not find anyone better." Next stop, possibly top 10 in the junior class, if he's not already there. - FoxSports

1/8/01: ". . . landing Greg Tinch also could enhance Louisville's chances of getting 6'10 Jr Alexander Johnson from Albany (Dougherty) GA, who ranks #27 nationally in the junior class by the HOOP SCOOP." - HoopScoop

1/3/01: Listed as the 4th best Center in the USA. - Ohio Preps

12/22: "He's a good all-around player," said Dougherty High School coach Charlie Givens. "He can do almost anything on the court; he's played all five positions. He's strong as a mule, and he's a good athlete. Alexander is a member of the track team, and he also plays wide receiver on the football team." "All young players have room for improvement, but if he keeps working on what he's doing he'll be fine." With respect to Alexander's recruitment, Coach Givens unfortunately could not provide a great deal of insight at this time. "At the end of the basketball season, we'll talk about some of the schools that Alexander might be interested in", declared Coach Givens. After nine games, Alexander averages a gaudy 25ppg and 13rpg." - ACC Recruiting Update

12/20: "The agile big-fella scored 32 pts. and had 18 boards and 7 blocks as he led his Doughtery High School team to a 77-57 victory over Crispin County. Memphis. Cincy and UNC seem to be his leaders, although the race is still on for his services." - Mid South Hoops

11/00: "his game consists of skills, fundamentals, patience and big time athleticism. He's a 6'10 PF from Dougherty HS in Albany, Georgia and his performances this summer against the likes of 7'0 Tyson Chandler and 6'11 David Harrison had several division one coaches rushing back to their offices to start working on recruiting the big Georgia forward. "He's got a great understanding of the game, his fundamentals are solid, he's skilled in the paint, and patient offensively," said Georgia Elite's Courtney Goldwire, "he's the type of kid that passes well from the post, makes the others around him better and shoots the ball extremely well." "He'll be the best power forward in the country by next season," said Goldwire. "Well, he and Shavlik Randolph." Johnson played this summer with the Georgia Elite program for Linzy Davis. He's already receiving an onslaught of attention from "everyone," according to Goldwire, "he'll be able to choose where he wants to go." Goldwire noted that while it's still early, the 6'10 Johnson maintains a list of Miami, Georgia, Ga. Tech, Kentucky, Alabama, Memphis, North Carolina and Cincinnati. About the possibility of an early favorite, Goldwire responded "He really likes North Carolina and Cincinnati and Memphis is also strongly in the picture." Despite the great summer that Johnson had with the Georgia Elite, Goldwire noticed that Johnson didn't really receive the proper publicity with the media that several other top prospects did. - High Major Hoops