Kent State University at Tuscarawas is announcing the signing of a 2023 Allen (TX) High School senior to their men's basketball team.

Mekhi Johnson recently signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the Golden Eagles.

Johnson was a two-year letter winner for the Allen (TX) Eagles basketball team who finished with an overall record of 28-8 his senior season and were ranked first in 6A Region 1 District with a one-loss record of 13-1. The Eagles were 23-12 his junior year. In 2022-23 he earned All-First Defensive Team in the district, and in 2021-22 was named District 1 Newcomer-of-the-Year as well as First Team All-District while also being the top rebounder in District 1. Johnson also played AAU basketball for Dallas Showtyme and besides being team captain, he led the team in rebounding and was their second leading scorer.

Academically, he has carried a solid 3.25-3.5 cumulative GPA with his highest grade coming in U.S. Government where he earned a 92 percent. He also acted in a school theatrical performance in the lead role of a play that won a district competition.

His community service includes involvement as a captain and team member of Praise dance team at his church. His basketball team sponsored a food drive for the homeless, basketball camp for children and helps train younger kids to follow their goals of being better students and athletes. Johnson was also part of a give-back program in his local community.

He plans to pursue a Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Science degree at Kent State Tuscarawas.

"At six-foot six-inches Mekhi has great range and quickness" said Richard Tharp, Head Men's Basketball Coach for Kent State Tuscarawas. "His rebounding prowess shows he has a nose for the ball and is dedicated to defense first in order to set the table for the offensive end of the floor. He will fit well in our rip-and-run style of play. Mekhi is well-liked by everyone because he is a team-first type of player and we are excited to have him wearing navy and gold."

Kent State Tuscarawas is a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA).

Mekhi Johnson and his mother Yvette.

Mekhi signs his Letter of Intent.

(Photos courtesy of Allen High School Athletics)