"The Pulse That Never Quits Where Confidence Energy and Buckets Collide"

Riley Johnson

@Riley_Johnson5,

IG: @riley_johnson,

5'10 , 173lbs, Class of 2027

Herbert Hoover HS, WV

Riley plays the game with a steady heartbeat and a relentless motor. A true 3-level scoring guard, he spaces the floor with confident shooting, punishes gaps with a strong downhill attack, and lives comfortably in the midrange when defenses overplay. Every possession matters. He moves without the ball, communicates loudly on the defensive end, and keeps the offense organized with smart reads and timely delivery. His ability to hit shots forces defenders to stay honest, his vision creates open looks for others, and his energy never dips. The tone is set early and kept there because Riley plays every possession with intent and edge.

Last season, Riley averaged 10 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game while raining in 45 total 3s and earning All Conference honors. This current season, he has exploded, averaging 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. The leap is tied directly to improvement as a ball handler, added muscle, and an expanded scoring bag that allows him to create on demand. Daily work has paid off, building confidence and control that show up late in games when pressure rises.

That hunger was sharpened by a tough regional championship loss. Watching seniors walk off the floor earlier than they deserved lit a fire that still burns. It shows in how Riley prepares and how he leads. Rivalry nights against crosstown Sissonville High School bring out his edge, where intensity is high, and every possession feels personal. Coaches can expect leadership every time he checks in, steady encouragement, constant communication, and a pace that lifts teammates. He embraces the responsibility of setting the tone and takes pride in defense as the spark that fuels everything else.

Next season carries extra meaning with one final ride alongside his head coach, a mentor who has shaped him on and off the floor. That bond shows in Riley’s approach to the game and to life. Off the court, he enjoys spending time with his family and close friends, and devotes time to strengthening his faith. He studies his Bible, shares it with others, and has begun preaching and giving Bible studies, choosing purpose and service alongside the grind of basketball.

Faith sits at the center of how Riley handles adversity. He places trust in God, leaning on Him for strength, direction, and peace when moments get heavy. That foundation keeps him composed, confident, and focused on the steps in front of him. His message is clear and lived out daily, giving his life to Jesus Christ and letting that commitment guide every part of his journey.

Recruiting momentum is building with interest from several MEC DII programs and offers from NAIA Alice Lloyd College and Davis & Elkins College. The door remains open as Riley continues to evaluate fit, with MEC, PSAC DII programs, and low DI opportunities firmly on the radar.

I assess that Riley brings value as a steady scoring guard who organizes the floor and lifts team energy through constant movement and communication. His ability to score at all three levels while keeping teammates involved allows him to impact winning in multiple ways, especially in high-pressure moments.

Moving forward, continued growth in lateral speed and defensive footwork will raise his ceiling even higher. Expect a confident leader who thrives in big moments, embraces responsibility, and continues to add layers to his game while staying anchored by faith and work ethic. Stay tuned.