Few players jumped onto the scene as much as Tre Johnson did. He averaged 28.5 points per game in his first two games as a Longhorn. After being one of the top high school recruits, he declared early after leading Texas to the First Four this past season. Let’s dive into Johnson’s strengths and weaknesses as a prospect and where he projects in the draft.
Tre Johnson 2025 NBA Draft Profile
College Career
Johnson, a true freshman this past season, only played in one full season for the Longhorns, but he was the main contributor on their NCAA Tournament team. Competing in arguably the greatest conference in the history of college basketball, Johnson showed out. He averaged 19.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. While the Longhorns lost their first NCAA Tournament game, leading a team through the SEC gauntlet as a freshman was commendable.
Johnson provided elite scoring throughout the season, scoring more than 25 points eight times, including a 39-point outburst against Arkansas. As with all freshmen, he underwent some midseason struggles after scouting reports came out. However, he adjusted well and finished the season in great form. Texas fired Rodney Terry after the season, but one thing he did well was bring elite play out of Johnson.
Strengths
Johnson’s strengths as a prospect are carried by his elite shot creation. He easily creates space for himself and uses his 6-foot-6 frame to shoot over defenders. Whether it be step-back threes or pull-up mid-range jumpers, Johnson has several elite moves to create his own space. With that shot, creation comes elite three-point shooting. Johnson shot 39.7% from three, often taking difficult shots over defenders. His shooting comes with an unlimited range. He frequently found himself shooting several feet behind the line, leaving little doubt about his ability to transition to the longer three-point shot.
When Johnson was able to get to the rim, he showed an ability to create shots for others. While he never fully committed to being a consistent playmaker, he still averaged 2.7 assists per game and could slot in as a second or third playmaking option in the NBA. Johnson also took care of the ball, adding sound decision-making as a passer to his upside.
Weaknesses
With elite shot creation often comes bad decision-making for young players. At times, Johnson found himself making tough shots. However, more often than not, a 30-foot contested fadeaway won’t find the bottom of the net. Johnson was the top-scoring option and knew it, often taking ill-advised shots. He didn’t turn the ball over much, but some of his shots had little chance of going in. Johnson also struggled to get to the rim with average athleticism. While he showed some flashy finishes, he often found himself stuck on the outside, relying on long jumpers for scoring.
However, the worst part of Johnson’s game is his defense. Like any player, he would bring intensity to some plays and make a nice defensive play. However, he often lacked the discipline to play strong defense. Opponents used backdoor cuts for easy layups. He lacked the strength and athleticism to stop opponents driving. He had lackluster close-outs on the perimeter. Johnson has potential on the offensive side of the floor, but his defense will need improvement to play meaningful NBA minutes. He is only 19 and will be for most of next season, so he has time to figure things out defensively.
NBA Comparison
Tyler Herro is a good ceiling comparison for Johnson. He has the shot-making skills with limited athletic abilities. However, a more realistic comparison would be a player like Malik Beasley. Beasley had made himself known for threes and making tough shots on the perimeter. Johnson may never live up to his potential defensively, leaving him with marginal minutes. However, if he gets proper coaching, he will likely find himself as a strong role player on a playoff team, providing volatile scoring like Beasley.
2025 NBA Draft Projection
Johnson will likely be drafted in the lottery. It will depend on how the lottery turns out, but Johnson should find himself drafted between picks five and ten.
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