Chico Johnson, a talented guard standing at 6-3 and weighing 180 pounds, has recently joined USC Upstate‘s men’s basketball team.
A product of Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio, Chico spent his freshman season at Drake University.
Despite redshirting his freshman year, his potential on the court remains highly anticipated.
With the evolving landscape of college athletics, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have become crucial for athletes.
Chico’s transfer to USC Upstate comes at an opportune time as the university has announced its #HYPEUP NIL program. This initiative aims to maximize athletes’ NIL opportunities, offering education in social media best practices and brand building.
Chico’s journey reflects not just athletic promise but also a strategic move to leverage new advantages in college sports.
As part of head coach Marty Richter’s inaugural recruiting class, Chico is set to make a significant impact both on and off the court.
Keep reading to discover Chico’s potential net worth and how NIL deals are shaping his career.
Who Is Chico Johnson?
Chico Johnson stands out as a notable guard playing for the University of South Carolina Upstate men’s basketball team.
Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Chico attended Central Catholic High School.
As a high school player, he earned various honors in the state of Ohio, including First Team All-Ohio, First Team All-Northwest Ohio District, and First Team All-Three Rivers Athletic Conference.
He was also part of the All-TRAC Academic Team, showcasing his skills both on the court and in the classroom.
In his junior year, Chico averaged 15.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.
This performance helped his team in securing a district title, marking the first such achievement for Central Catholic since 2011.
Rated as a four-star recruit by ESPN, Chico’s defensive abilities and speed on the court have been frequently highlighted. This recognition is one of the factors that led to his recruitment by USC Upstate.
During his freshman season at Drake University, Chico took a redshirt year, not appearing in any games.
This transition period allowed him to develop further, paving the way for his impactful contribution to his new team at USC Upstate for the 2024-25 season.
What Is Chico Johnson NBA Draft Projection?
Chico Johnson, a four-star recruit from the 2023 recruiting class, has shown promising talent on the court.
As a freshman at Drake University, he exhibited strong skills despite being a redshirted player. His high school career at Central Catholic High School in Toledo showcased his potential.
In high school, he earned the titles of First Team All-Ohio and All-District VII Division II Player of the Year.
Averaging 15.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, Johnson was integral to his team’s success.
His performance was critical in helping Central Catholic secure their first district title since 2011.
With his foundation, NBA scouts have taken note of his abilities.
Johnson’s combination of scoring ability, defensive skills, and basketball IQ makes him a potential draft pick.
However, his draft stock will largely depend on his performance in the upcoming college seasons.
Consistent play and further development of his skills, especially in a competitive college environment, will be key factors.
Johnson’s status as a potential NBA Draft prospect is promising but also hinges on his growth and adaptability.
If he can maintain and improve his performance at Drake University, he could position himself well for the NBA Draft.
His involvement in crucial game situations and ability to handle pressure will also be scrutinized closely by scouts in the coming seasons.
Which NBA Player Does Chico Johnson Compare To?
Chico Johnson, a key player for USC Upstate, exhibits skills that are reminiscent of several NBA stars.
Standing at six-foot-three, Johnson is known for his agility, defensive prowess, and scoring capability.
He can be compared to Marcus Smart of the Boston Celtics. Both have a strong defensive game, often guarding top opponents effectively.
Johnson’s ability to shoot and drive to the basket is akin to Derrick White. Like White, Johnson can make crucial plays and display excellent ball-handling skills.
Attributes Comparison:
| Attribute | Chico Johnson | Marcus Smart | Derrick White |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ | 6’4″ | 6’4″ |
| Defensive Strength | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good |
| Scoring Capability | High | High | High |
| Playmaking Skills | Strong | Strong | Strong |
His transition to USC Upstate sets him up for success under Marty Richter, as seen with his recent signing noted here.
Johnson’s style of play and attributes make him a well-rounded and versatile player, drawing comparisons to these NBA athletes. His development continues to impress, making him a player to watch.
How Much Is Chico Johnson Making In NIL Money?
Chico Johnson, a standout player for USC Upstate, has been making waves with his numerous NIL deals. These agreements have significantly boosted his earnings while studying and playing basketball.
Who Is Sponsoring Chico Johnson?
Chico Johnson’s NIL deals involve several prominent sponsors.
One of his key partnerships is with a sports apparel brand, providing him with both financial aid and gear.
Additionally, he has secured a deal with a local restaurant in downtown Spartanburg, which not only offers monetary compensation but also endorsements for their menu items.
Moreover, Chico is part of a larger collective of USC athletes who benefit from group sponsorships.
These collective deals increase his visibility and market value, helping him build a robust personal brand.
Although exact financial figures are often undisclosed, experts estimate that college athletes like Chico can earn tens of thousands annually from such NIL agreements.
This income is helping him manage expenses without relying solely on scholarships or loans.
What Is Chico Johnson Net Worth?
Chico Johnson, currently playing for USC Upstate, is at the beginning of his athletic career. His net worth is not extensively documented, given that he is a college athlete.
Name: Chico Johnson
Team: USC Upstate Spartans
Position: Guard
At the college level, players typically do not earn significant salaries. However, the recent emergence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals has provided college athletes like Chico additional opportunities to earn money.
Potential Earnings
While exact figures for Chico’s NIL deals are not publicly disclosed, estimates for college athletes can range widely.
Some athletes earn thousands through endorsements, social media promotions, and merchandise deals.
Comparison with Professionals
To put things in perspective, professional athletes such as Chad Ochocinco Johnson have net worths in the millions.
Chad Ochocinco, for instance, has a net worth of around $15 million due to his successful NFL career and various endorsements.
It’s important to note that Chico’s career is still in its early stages, and similar financial success may be achievable down the line.
Future Prospects
Chico’s potential for future earnings hinges on his performance and marketability.
Should his performance on the court draw significant attention, lucrative NIL deals and professional contracts could significantly raise his net worth.
More information about his achievements and financial growth will likely become available as Chico progresses in his career.