California guard has high major looks

Matt Johnson is numero uno for the Sierra College (CA) squad. That is, he wears the numeral one on his jersey. It's fitting because he's also the top recruiting target on the Wolverine squad.

Johnson is a do-it-all performer for Coach John Fusano. Want some passing? Johnson has notched 158 assists so far this season and possesses a 2.46 assist-to-turnover ratio. Need some rebounds? Johnson's contributing 6.4 boards a contest. Steals? Try two a game. Shooting? How about .526 from the floor overall, .575 in league play, close to 80% on his free throws and 12.4 points per game in conference play.

But ask Fusano about Johnson and the first response is one word, a non basketball-related term: "Commitment."

Here's a little background:

While a senior at Sacramento High, Johnson was named the most valuable player of the Capital Athletic League and also the most valuable player on the Sacramento all-city squad.

He decided to remain in his hometown after his prep days concluded. Having a infant son factored heavily into Johnson's decision. But he also chose to attend Sierra College in nearby Rocklin and play for Fusano, rather than any of the closer schools such as American River College, Sacramento City College or Cosumnes River College.

Despite the travel each day to and from Rocklin and the responsibilities of being a father, Johnson "has never missed a practice in his two years here," according to Fusano. Hence the 'committed' description.

But 'committed' also applies to Johnson come game time.

A first-team, all-league selection this year at Sierra, Johnson's versatility is remarkable. Fusano says his sophomore player "is a great on-the-ball defender and displays incredible defensive anticipation off-the-ball. He's a combo point/two guard/wing with big-time athletic ability. He'll put in minutes at each of those positions at the next level."

Colleges have certainly noticed. Right now, Johnson has a favorite five of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Arkansas, Utah and Hawaii, meaning teams from the Big 12, Southeastern, Mountain West and Western Athletic big-time conferences are eager for his services.

Fusano, whose team posted a 19-11 overall, 8-4 Big 7 Conference record this season, sees great things in Johnson's future.

"He (Johnson) will be a starter at the next level," Fusano said.

But for once, it won't be in the Sacramento area.