Kentucky commit Jasper Johnson once briefly described his top 5 colleges
One of the biggest offseason wins for Kentucky came through Jasper Johnson's commitment. He's a top-15-ranked guard in the nation and was one of the best scorers in the Peach Jam in July, averaging nearly 20 points per game. His recruitment speaks volumes about the Cats' first-year coach Mark Pope's acumen and Kentucky's overall basketball standards.
Moreover, Johnson has always thought highly of the program too. A glimpse of it came on September 3, when the crafty guard was asked to name a good thing from each of his preferred college picks.
"Louisville, I would say they got some good rappers," Johnson said. "Arkansas, aren't they known for like, Walmart or something like that? Kentucky, great basketball program. UNC, Michael Jordan. Alabama, Nick Saban," he added.
Johnson decided to join the Wildcats by letting go of North Carolina, Alabama, Louisville and Arkansas. Due to their heavy interest and constant interaction with the youngster, he was likely to end up with Nate Oats' program.
Alongside their hardwood reputation, Jasper Johnson’s commitment also stems from his roots in the program. His father, Dennis Johnson, is a renowned former defensive lineman who played for the school from 2000-2002. Moreover, Johnson’s family resides nearly 15 minutes away from Wildcats’ Rupp Arena.
Additionally, Mark Pope and his crew translated their seriousness in acquiring his talents. The coaching staff made an appearance in Johnson's hotel room on the midnight of the day coaches were allowed by the NCAA.
Malachi Morena helped Kentucky recruit Jasper Johnson
Johnson is the second success story in Mark Pope’s quest to line his first recruit class. The top big man in the class of 2025, Malachi Moreno, was the first addition to next year’s roster.
As he announced his commitment with Pope’s staff mid-August, the center made sure that he eased the coach’s job instantly. Being a Kentucky native himself, Malachi Moreno sent a message out to Jasper Johnson.
"You know where home is at Jasper," Moreno said near the end of his ceremony.
While Mark Pope had already cultivated a connection with Johnson at the time, one of his major moves included nearing Alabama’s NIL offer to Johnson.