LOS ANGELES — It was always Kobe Johnson’s goal, after his junior season, to test the NBA draft waters. So when he announced on social media Friday an intention to enter the draft, it was hardly a surprise, ending a three-year career of rapid growth at USC.
The much larger surprise, however: Johnson also announced he was entering into the NCAA transfer portal.
“I can’t even express my gratitude for the incredible journey I’ve had here,” Johnson wrote on Twitter. “I would like to say a sincere thank you to the coaches, my teammates, and the fans for showing unwavering support throughout my time here at USC.”
It’s a massive loss for the program, as Johnson has been a major contributor for two seasons, working his way to captain status as a junior. With a goal to deepen his offense repertoire this past season, he struggled at times with his shot in an up-and-down USC season, averaging 10.9 points a game on 40.4% shooting and 31.3% from three and briefly losing his starting job in February.
But Johnson’s frame – 6-foot-6 and 200 pounds with a lanky wingspan – and defensive intangibles are NBA-ready and helped make him a two-time Pac-12 All-Defensive Team selection.
“I know I can defend,” he told the Southern California News Group in the fall. “That’s what I’m gonna come out and do every night.”
His draft stock is unclear, in a 2024 class that’s not top-heavy but deep. One NBA scout, who’s been to multiple USC games this season, told the Southern California News Group a month ago that Johnson “has intangibles that can help a team win.”
“Just like with anything, when you go buy a car, if you can get a $20,000 car for $15,000 – you’re winning,” the scout said. “You can get Kobe without having to draft him, you’re winning. If he’s projected as a first-rounder and someone lets him slide to the second round, you’re winning.”
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Johnson’s departure ensures the program will look remarkably different next season. Fellow captain Boogie Ellis’ eligibility is done and reports are indicating multi-year program veterans Oziyah Sellers and Kijani Wright are also set to transfer. Freshman guard Isaiah Collier’s departure for the NBA draft would not be a surprise.
After USC’s loss to Arizona in the Pac-12 Tournament, head coach Andy Enfield told the Southern California News Group that they’d look at “numerous” players in the transfer portal.
They’ll have to – because at the moment, USC’s roster is razor thin.