USC Trojans Impress with Preseason Win Streak in Europe
Rising Star Player Johnson Shows Remarkable Growth and Versatility
Your USC Trojans have been on a triumphant journey during their 10-day preseason exhibition tour in Europe, emerging victorious with an unbeaten record of 3-0 against formidable professional teams. From August 5th to 15th, the team embarked on a thrilling expedition that spanned from the stunning landscapes of Mykonos, Greece, to the historic city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. Their exceptional performance saw them defeat the Serbian team MEGA Mis twice in Mykonos and the Montenegrin pro club SC Derby KK in Dubrovnik.
The Trojans’ standout defensive perimeter player, hailed as an All-Pac-12 Defensive Team member in 2023, displayed remarkable growth in his offensive skills during this overseas trip. Notably, he exhibited a newfound confidence in taking shots and showcased his prowess as a ball handler, leaving knowledgeable observers deeply impressed.
“Kobe Johnson is unrecognizable compared to the player he was when he arrived at USC,” Spratling writes. “He’s a burgeoning star with his playmaking ability on both ends.”
According to insights shared by Shotgun Spratling from 247Sports, the rising junior standing at 6’6″ and hailing from Milwaukee, has shown significant development since his debut season with the Trojans. Throughout the team’s triumphant trio of exhibition matches in Europe, Johnson displayed an average of 14.3 points per game. While his shooting percentages of .390 from the field, .278 from beyond the arc, and .857 from the free-throw line may not be elite, it’s important to note that he took an impressive 13.7 field goal attempts per game. Johnson’s well-rounded contribution extended to rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks, with averages of 6.0, 3.7, 3.3, and 1.3 respectively.
Looking ahead, Johnson is currently positioned as a prospective late-second round pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA draft, provided he chooses to enter it with one more year of college eligibility. The trajectory of his draft stock remains uncertain as the 2023-24 season approaches, promising an exciting journey of discovery for both Johnson and his supporters.
