The basketball prospect who grew seven inches during a pandemic
In short: Most athletes follow a linear path of physical development, but AJ Johnson experienced a radical transformation. During the 2020 pandemic, he underwent a massive growth spurt that fundamentally altered his trajectory from a high school guard to a versatile NBA prospect.
Born in Fresno, California, AJ Johnson's early development was shaped by proximity to established stars like Jalen Green. However, his physical profile shifted dramatically in 2020. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson grew from 5 ft 10 in to 6 ft 5 in. This rapid expansion allowed him to emerge as one of the most significant risers in the 2023 high school class, eventually being ranked as a top-10 player by major outlets including ESPN and 247Sports.
His path to the professional ranks was non-traditional. After briefly attending Donda Academy, Johnson opted for an international route, signing with the Illawarra Hawks of the Australian NBL in 2023. He joined the NBL's Next Stars program alongside LaMelo Ball, seeking experience outside the American collegiate system. This move was a strategic pivot from his initial commitment to the University of Texas, which he decommitted from in April 2023.
The NBA eventually took notice of his development. In June 2024, the Milwaukee Bucks selected him with the 23rd overall pick—a move many analysts considered a 'reach' or a 'surprising pick' given his status as a project player. Since his debut in October 2024, Johnson has been a frequent piece of high-volume transactions, moving through the Wizards and Grizzlies before landing with the New Orleans Pelicans in late 2026. His journey highlights the volatile, high-speed nature of modern player movement and the impact of late-stage physical maturation.
Johnson's career serves as a case study in the 'project' archetype: a player whose value is tied to a rapid physical metamorphosis and the ability to adapt to different leagues—from the Australian NBL to the NBA—in a very short window of time.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: AJ Johnson (basketball)
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