Johnathan Edwards is a New Yorker, but he seems to have found a niche for himself at Living Faith Christian Academy in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. A 6-foot-8, 200-pound power forward/small forward out of the class of 2008, Edwards is an intriguing player who still appears to be coming into his own.
"He's different than most," said Darryl Gladden, head coach at LFCA. "He's a 6-foot-8 perimeter kid. He was well-coached prior to coming to us. I had him for a year at Life Center. His upside potential is really, really good."
Edwards, a native of Elmont, New York, attended Life Center Academy, where Gladden previously coached, prior to coming to Living Faith. He spent his freshman year at Elmont High School on Long Island. Originally in the class of 2006, he has reclassified twice.
Johnathan suited up with Gladden's Soaring Eagles AAU team at the Rumble in the Bronx at Fordham University this past weekend. The slender lefthander appears to be comfortable in the high post as well as the low post. He shows good mobility and can put the ball on the floor some.
"He can handle the ball and he can shoot," said Gladden. "He has the advantage of being a lefty, and he's long. As his body continues to develop, and he gets stronger, everything he does gets enhanced. He's very coachable, and he's a very good kid. His versatility and knowledge of the game (are assets)."
Edwards has already drawn feelers from a diverse mix of schools.
"Some Big East schools have inquired, like Rutgers," said Gladden. "Some Atlantic 10 schools- St. Joe's likes him. New Mexico, South Carolina. We haven't really thought about schools yet because he's only going into his junior year."
New Mexico, St. Joseph's, and Penn State evaluated Edwards during his high school season.
Schools like St. John's, Indiana, Virginia Commonwealth, West Virginia, and Bucknell have also made preliminary contact. Although it is early, Edwards is intrigued by what New Mexico has to offer.
"I like the coaches a lot," said Edwards. "I think they're good people I've watched the team a lot, and I like the way they play. I like Danny Granger, and the way they used him. I could see myself in a similar position."
The 17-year old Edwards averaged roughly 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two blocks this past season.
"My ballhandling and my ability to create my own shot are my biggest strengths," said Edwards. "I want to improve on my three-point shot. I think I have pretty good moves in the post, but I want to improve."
The Soaring Eagles will be at the Reebok Summer Classic during July, and Living Faith Christian Academy will participate in the Eastern Invitational team camp. Edwards said there is a possibility that he will be with the Playaz during July, as well.