Kentucky freshman continues to rise as FIBA U19 World Cup draws near
Jasper Johnson may only be a freshman, but he’s already turning heads across the country — and now, he’s closing in on a chance to represent Team USA on the global stage.
On Thursday, USA Basketball announced that Johnson has made it through two rounds of cuts, officially becoming one of 15 finalists for the 2025 USA Men’s U19 National Team. This elite squad will soon be trimmed down to just 12 players, who will head to Lausanne, Switzerland for the FIBA U19 Men’s World Cup, taking place from June 28 to July 6.
Training Camp Spotlight
Johnson is currently participating in training camp at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, where he’s been competing alongside some of the most highly regarded young talents in the country.
Among the names joining him in the final 15 are:
Mikel Brown Jr.
AJ Dybantsa
Tyran Stokes
Koa Peat
Arizona’s Tommy Lloyd is serving as the team’s head coach, with Grant McCasland (Texas Tech) and Micah Shrewsberry (Notre Dame) assisting.
Why Johnson Could Make the Final 12
Johnson’s progression through two cuts isn’t just impressive — it’s a clear signal that his stock is soaring. Known for his smooth left-handed shot, elite feel for the game, and defensive versatility, Johnson is proving he belongs on one of the most competitive youth teams in the world.
And this kind of performance matters. Not just for Team USA — but for Kentucky basketball. With Mark Pope ushering in a new era in Lexington, Johnson’s rise adds more buzz to an already exciting freshman class.
Next Stop: Switzerland?
The final roster cut is expected just before Team USA leaves for Switzerland, meaning Johnson is just days away from learning his fate.
From a standout high school career to turning heads at the Olympic Training Center, Jasper Johnson is making it clear: he’s not here to blend in — he’s here to break through.
