Vols’ Johnson selects Marshall University

BY JOHN D. HOMAN

Logan Media Services

CARTERVILLE – John A. Logan College’s Jay Johnson, a 6-foot-7 shooting forward, announced this week that he has signed a letter of intent to play basketball next fall on scholarship for Division I Marshall University in Huntington, West Va.

Sophomore forward Jay Johnson of Versailles, Ky. skies high for a dunk at last month’s ‘Hoopin’ with the Vols’ preseason tune-up. (Photo courtesy Jon LeBlond with Logan Media Services)

Johnson is a native of Versailles, Ky., which is less than a two-hour drive from Marshall.

“First off, it’s a good feeling to get this decision out of the way,” Johnson said. “Second, it’s comforting to know how close to home I will be playing. That was a big plus in choosing Marshall.”

Johnson is a key cog on this Vols’ squad. A double-figure scorer a year ago and All-Region 24 performer, he has struggled offensively through the first three games of this season, totaling only nine points on 3-of-10 shooting from the field. He also has 14 rebounds, including seven Tuesday against Three Rivers Community College.

Logan head coach Kyle Smithpeters said Johnson can now relax and play better with his future decided.

“I think so,” he said. “A decision like this would weigh heavily on any kid’s shoulders. I think Marshall is a good pick. It’s a team competing in a great league (Conference USA), which can definitely use a kid like Jay. He may have struggled here early, but I have no doubt that Jay will turn things around soon. He’s too good a player not to do so. I fully expect him to make a major impact with us this season and carry that over to the next level.”

Johnson said he before he turns his focus to the four-year school, he has unfinished business to tend to at Logan.

“I want to help us start winning some games,” he said. “I want to finish my time here on a positive note.”