The landscape of college athletics has been forever changed by the transfer portal and the introduction of NIL deals for student-athletes. College athletes are essentially minor league players now.
However, the NCAA has still managed to keep some structure around and has prevented professional players from coming down to dominate the college level. Now, it seems as if things have finally crossed the point of no return.
Basketball player London Johnson signed with the G-League Ignite in 2022, where he spent two seasons. Johnson was subsequently selected by the Maine Celtics, the Boston Celtics G-League affiliate, in the 2024 G-League draft with the number 21 overall pick. In January 2025, Johnson was acquired by the Cleveland Charge.
Now, Johnson is taking his talents… to the collegiate level.
“G-League Ignite point guard London Johnson has committed to Louisville in the 2026 class, source told (The Field of 68). Johnson, 21, spent last year in the G League with the Maine (Celtics) and Cleveland Charge. Likely will have two years left to play. Johnson, who played his high school ball at Norcross in Georgia, is expected to arrive in Louisville mid-year and will sit out for the rest of the season, and be eligible next year,” [reported Jeff Goodman.](https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/1980299488582570126)
Fans reacted to the insane news on social media.
“I miss when this was the wrong order of how you move levels in basketball,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“It begs the question of how college basketball is any different than any other pro league, when overseas and G-League players are entering conferences,” someone else added.
“College coach can now recruit G-league player. Smh high school recruiting is just about over with,” one fan added.
This is a move that could have major ramifications for the future of the sport.