Not all collegiate stars make the right decision. Bypass their final years in college to jump into the big pond, the NBA.
Up until last May, Purdue center JaJuan Johnson thought he would forgo his senior season in West Lafayette to cash in at the next level. Something changed in the final days. On May 6th, I was told he thought his stock was high enough and had positive vibes from numerous NBA camps. Maybe it was Coach Painter, his teammates or family. Or maybe he had an itch to make it farther in the NCAA tournament.
Nonetheless, on May 8th, Johnson announced he would stay in school and finish out his four years.
That decision was brilliant.
This season, JaJuan Johnson is an All-American having his best year yet. Prior to the season, he was one of two Purdue players named Preseason All-Big Ten and he has lived up to that title. Last year, he averaged 15.5 points, 7 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game. 22 games into his final year, he is averaging 20.6 points, 8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game. He has scored at least 20 points in the last six games and 13 total on the year. He has led the team in scoring in each of those games and is number one in the Big Ten in scoring.
He has been a dominant and led the Boilermakers in the absence of Robbie Hummel. Purdue currently sits second in the Big Ten at 18-4, 7-2 Big Ten behind top-ranked Ohio State.
Johnson quietly goes about the business. He leads not only by voice but also by example.
I had the pleasure of watching Johnson in high school numerous times at Franklin Central in Indiana. And let me tell you, he wasn’t that impressive. Like any big man in high school he was able to control the paint and make dunks. His game since is above and beyond that. In his four years at Purdue, he has been a tremendous asset and help legitimize Purdue in college basketball.
Most players jump into the ocean looking for big money. They grade themselves highly rather than realistically. Whoever changed JaJuan Johnson’s mind on May 8th, college basketball fans praise you. He is truly making the best out of ‘the best four years of his life.’
This season, Johnson has proved he is worthy NBA talent for sure. Until this season, his status was in question. Instead of talking, JaJuan is letting his play do the talking and just focused on this season. And for that, Johnson and basketball in the state of Indiana is better off.
Make the trip to West Lafayette (yes it is ugly and smells) before the year is over because he has been an enjoyable player to watch and see develop these last four seasons.