Syracuse Basketball Recruit David Johnson Transfers to Oak Hill Academy, Joins Elite Company
David Johnson is just a freshman, but his name is already making waves in high school hoops circles. The 6-foot-8 wing from New York, widely viewed as one of the top prospects in the 2029 class, has taken a major step in his development-both on and off the court-by transferring to Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia.
If that name rings a bell for Syracuse fans, it should. Oak Hill has long been a pipeline to Central New York, producing Orange standouts like Carmelo Anthony, Eric Devendorf, and Judah Mintz. Now, Johnson joins that lineage, and the move could be a pivotal moment in his young career.
A New Chapter at a Storied Program
Johnson’s transfer to Oak Hill isn’t just a change of scenery-it’s a leap into one of the most competitive environments in high school basketball. Oak Hill competes in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League Scholastic (EYBL Scholastic), arguably the top high school league in the country. The 2025-26 season marks a significant expansion for the league, growing from 14 to 20 teams, and Oak Hill is right in the thick of it.
This move also comes at a time of renewed energy around the Oak Hill program. In April, NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony returned to the school in a leadership role, taking over as co-general manager of basketball operations alongside Bay Frazier.
One of their first major decisions? Naming John Zito as the new head coach of Oak Hill's Gold Team.
That’s the kind of high-level infrastructure Johnson is now stepping into.
Johnson’s Rise and Syracuse’s Interest
Before landing at Oak Hill, Johnson played at Huntington Expression Prep in West Virginia-another respected program known for developing high-level talent. Even as a freshman, Johnson has already caught the eye of several major college programs.
According to his social media, he picked up an offer from Syracuse in late August. Texas A&M and Virginia Tech have also extended offers, and more are likely on the way as his profile continues to rise.
Though recruiting services haven’t yet rolled out full rankings for the 2029 class, the buzz around Johnson is loud. Analysts and scouts are already projecting him as a five-star talent, with top-10 to top-15 potential nationally. That’s high praise for a player who’s just starting his high school journey.
What Makes Johnson Special
At 6-foot-8-and still growing-Johnson brings a rare blend of size, fluidity, and skill to the wing position. He’s not just a tall frame with potential; he’s already showing signs of being a true impact player on both ends of the floor.
Scouting reports out of camps like the Pangos All-East Frosh/Soph showcase highlight his versatility. He’s got an advanced handle for his age, makes smart off-ball cuts, and can create off the dribble with a smooth jumper. On defense, his length and mobility allow him to be disruptive without overextending.
One analyst described him as “a lanky and mobile big forward… an athlete, not just a tall dude.” And that’s the key-Johnson doesn’t just move well for his size, he plays with purpose and poise. As he continues to fill out his frame and add strength, the ceiling only gets higher.
A Name to Watch
Johnson’s inclusion in a recent list of the top 15 freshmen in the country by nbadraftroom.com only reinforces what scouts are seeing: this is a player with long-term upside and the tools to become a major name in college basketball-and potentially beyond.
He was mentioned alongside another Syracuse target, Isaiah Rider IV, a 6-foot-2 combo guard from Arizona and the son of former NBA standout J.R. Rider. Together, they represent the kind of high-ceiling talent Syracuse is targeting as it looks to re-establish itself on the national recruiting stage.
The Bottom Line
For Syracuse fans, David Johnson is a name to remember. His transfer to Oak Hill puts him in a high-exposure, high-development environment that has produced some of the game’s biggest names. And with the Orange already in early on his recruitment, the connection between Central New York and Oak Hill could be rekindling in a big way.
Johnson’s story is just beginning, but the foundation is being laid at one of the sport’s most iconic prep programs. Keep an eye on this one-he’s got the tools, the opportunity, and now, the platform.