Meechie Johnson Jr. speaks up about his reasons for leaving Ohio State in the middle of the season.
Meechie Johnson Jr.’s journey through collegiate basketball has been marked by resilience, personal growth, and a deep connection to his roots. After a promising start at Ohio State, his path led him to South Carolina, and eventually back to Ohio State, where he faced unexpected challenges during the 2024-2025 season. In this comprehensive account, we delve into Johnson’s experiences, the factors influencing his decisions, and the impact of his midseason departure from Ohio State.
Early Life and Initial Stint at Ohio State
Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Meechie Johnson Jr. exhibited exceptional basketball talent from a young age. He attended Garfield Heights High School, where he suffered a significant knee injury—a torn MCL and both menisci in his right knee—that sidelined him for his entire junior season. Undeterred, Johnson graduated early and enrolled at Ohio State in December 2020, aiming to contribute to the Buckeyes midseason.
Over his first two seasons with Ohio State, Johnson’s role evolved. In his freshman year, he played in 17 games, averaging 5.8 minutes and 1.2 points per game. The following season saw an increase in responsibility, with Johnson averaging 17.7 minutes and 4.4 points per game. However, injuries continued to impede his progress; a facial injury and a sprained ankle led to missed games and affected his performance. Despite these setbacks, Johnson’s potential was evident, highlighted by a memorable game-winning 3-pointer against Seton Hall in the Fort Myers Tip-Off.
Transition to South Carolina
Seeking a fresh start, Johnson transferred to the University of South Carolina for the 2022-2023 season. Under Coach Lamont Paris, he flourished, starting 62 of 63 games over two seasons. In the 2023-2024 season, Johnson led the Gamecocks with an average of 14.1 points per game and earned second-team All-SEC honors. His performance included multiple games scoring 20 or more points, underscoring his growth as a player.
Return to Ohio State
In April 2024, Johnson announced his decision to return to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility. He expressed a strong desire to play alongside fellow guard Bruce Thornton, believing their partnership could form one of the nation’s premier backcourts. Johnson’s return was also motivated by a yearning to be closer to home and contribute to a team he felt had the potential for significant success.
Midseason Absence
The 2024-2025 season began with promise, but after 11 games, Johnson took a leave of absence to address personal matters. At the time of his departure, he was averaging 9.1 points and 2.7 assists per game, playing approximately 29 minutes per contest. The exact nature of his personal issues was not publicly disclosed, respecting his privacy during this challenging period.
This absence was particularly impactful for Ohio State, given Johnson’s integral role in the team’s dynamics. With both Johnson and another starter sidelined, the Buckeyes faced challenges in their backcourt rotation, relying on freshman John Mobley Jr. to step up in Johnson’s absence.
Support System and Community
Throughout his collegiate journey, Johnson has been supported by a robust network, including his family and close family friend LeBron James. James, who has referred to Johnson as his “nephew,” has been a vocal supporter of Johnson’s career, celebrating his achievements and providing mentorship. This relationship highlights the importance of community and mentorship in Johnson’s life, offering guidance and encouragement during pivotal moments.
Looking Ahead
As of March 27, 2025, Johnson’s status remains uncertain. The specifics of his personal matters have not been publicly detailed, and there is no confirmed timeline for his return to the court. The Ohio State community continues to support Johnson, respecting his privacy and hoping for his well-being and eventual return to basketball.
