Ari Johnson '26 Recruiting Profile

I started playing basketball at a young age with my dad.  I really enjoyed tagging along with him and before you know it I was dribbling the ball.  Basketball is a lot more than a sport to me, its the friendship that I gained and the team spirit and comradery to do well and win.  I know the value of team sport and the role of each player to make it successful, I don't want to win just for me, I want to win for my team, my coach and my family. My parents have invested a lot to help me in AAU, training, gyms and in camps.

My mom is an immigrant who came to the US in 2000 from the Island of St. Vincent, we go there every year on vacation and she reminds me of the value of the life I have and the one of others .  I asked my mom if I can do a basketball camp in the village where she grew up so I can share my knowledge with the kids.  Many of them can make shots over my head but they do it for fun.  My mom values hard work and has always instilled that in me.  I know the goal of college ball is not just to play a game, but to succeed as a student and an athlete.  Mom always talks about the value of education and the importance of being an academically rounded student. 

I am not sure what I want to major in as yet, but my dad is a Physical Therapist and I like the areas of sports medicine and rehabilitation.  I asked if I can keep my options open until I decide.

Here is why I will be a great fit for your team.  I absolutely love basketball, I  build on my skills every day. I am a great ball handler with good court IQ and I pride myself on making good decisions for my team.  I am a team player, I support all my team mates and pull them up when they are down.  I am a leader on and off the court and will be committed, athletically, academically  and socially the same way.  I can be trusted and I will give you above  100% every day.