If you are ever curious to see what passion for a game looks like on the football field or basketball court, then make the drive to Salina South High School and watch AJ Johnson play. The standout football and basketball player loves the sports and his teammates and it shows in his play.

“What I love most about my team and teammates in basketball and football is the ability we have to handle adversity, when things don’t go our way,” said Johnson. 

Johnson is a three-sport athlete, but most believe he will play at the next level in either football or basketball. 

“Constantly being in sports, I try to train for everything that I do. I wish I could perfect my craft in all three with the time given, so it’s just hard to try to train for everything that I do including school. I kind of have to try and narrow it down to what I want to do in the future, to train more in at this point in my life,” said Johnson. “I’ve gotten some division I attention in football and spent some time checking out some colleges for football, and have had several basketball coaches follow me on social media for basketball.” 

Another area Johnson strives for excellence in is academics. 

“Academics are very important to me. Without academics there’s no college so I have to make that more important if I want play a sport that I love,” said Johnson. 

His parents are a big part of his success. He gives them credit for always being there and helping him on and off the field. 

“A big influence on my life on and off the field is my mom, and my dad. My mom is always my biggest fan, and always knows what’s best for me as if she played the sport. My dad is an influence always to do better, and motivates me to come for his accomplishments and success in high school,” said Johnson. 

The next time you watch Johnson, he’s either playing small forward or power forward for the basketball team, corner or receiver for the football or running the 200 and doing the triple jump for the track team. This young man is certainly one to watch.