"Mountain-Style Showtime: Athleticism, Grit, and a Game Ready to Explode"

Brady Johnson

@Brady_SG23

IG: @brady_johnson_12

6’2, 170lbs, Class of 2026

Shelby Valley HS, KY

Brady has shed the “sleeper” tag and stamped himself as one of the fiercest two-way prospects in the mountains of Kentucky. At the @NextUpRecruits showcase, he woke the gym up with sneaky bounce, slicing to the rim in just two or three dribbles, and rising over bigger players with ease. His explosive first step freezes defenders to the floor as he blows right by, while his ability to control contact in the lane and finish smoothly turned tough shots into highlight plays using his athleticism and agility. He poured in points at all three levels, blending flair and toughness with the poise of a player who knows his moment is coming. Add in his relentless rebounding, rugged on-ball defense, and knack for erasing easy looks with chase-downs and contests, and Brady showed why “mountain-style showtime” perfectly defines his brand of basketball.

This past summer, Brady locked in and put his full focus on basketball after being a dual-sport athlete, and it shows. At @OntheRadarHoops, he averaged a double-double, proving he could dominate on both ends while sharing the floor with top-tier competition. His IQ has been his biggest improvement, allowing him to play within the flow of the offense, make the extra pass, and never force his way into the spotlight. The showcase was more than just a strong performance, but a statement. Brady has developed into a complete, two-way problem who is poised for a breakout season. His biggest focus remains sharpening his handles and building consistency from beyond the arc, but with his tireless motor, fearless attacking style, and steady growth, he’s on track to lead Shelby Valley with both edge and flair. Off the court, he enjoys riding dirt bikes with his buddies, carrying the same thrill-seeking energy he brings to the court.

I assess that Brady’s ability to score at will off the dribble, rise above defenders, and defend with grit makes him a dangerous weapon for any college program. His mix of athleticism and toughness, along with his relentless energy, allows him to impact the game in every phase while still elevating his teammates.

Johnson’s shift to full-time basketball is already paying off, and his stock is rising, and projects to have an electric breakout season. With his explosiveness, IQ, and willingness to do the dirty work, he has all the tools to surprise a lot of people and establish himself as one of the most complete guards in Kentucky’s 2026 class.