No. 28 prospect Dooney Johnson commits to Gonzaga for the class of 2027

Dooney Johnson, ranked No. 28 in ESPN’s 2027 class, has committed to Gonzaga just two days after taking his official visit, he told ESPN on Wednesday. The 6-foot-5 wing from Milwaukee becomes the highest-ranked player to join Mark Few’s program since Chet Holmgren, Hunter Sallis, and Nolan Hickman all signed in 2021. Johnson chose Gonzaga over several other programs, including Indiana, Syracuse, LSU, Missouri, and Wake Forest. His hometown schools, Marquette and Wisconsin, also heavily pursued him. Last season, he averaged 25.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game for Milwaukee Juneau High School, earning all-state honors.

Johnson said his relationship with Gonzaga’s staff grew steadily throughout the year and was solidified during his visit. “The conversations we’ve had have been great,” he told ESPN. “We made that connection in person and over the phone. Going on the official visit really solidified it for me.” The visit happened on the same night a judge cleared Tyon Grant-Foster to play this season, and Johnson said witnessing how the Gonzaga community rallied around Grant-Foster played a role in his decision. “It was how they carried themselves and supported each other,” he said. “Even with everything going on, they still took care of me and my family — that meant a lot.”

Johnson’s father, Torre Johnson Jr., emphasized that his son’s choice shows Milwaukee players can reach Division I success without leaving for prep schools. “We represent Milwaukee kids,” he said. “We wanted to prove that if you work hard, you can make it out of a Milwaukee public school.” Torre also coached former Gonzaga star and current Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs when he was young — a connection that helped influence Johnson’s decision. “That’s my guy,” Johnson said. “I’ve always looked up to him.” Johnson added that his goal is to bring more wins to Gonzaga and help lead the Bulldogs to a national championship, saying simply, “Coach Few is a winner. Gonzaga is a winner. It’s a great program.”