MILWAUKEE, WI: Marquette basketball’s 2026 recruiting efforts gained major traction Monday as four-star shooting guard Ethan Johnston announced his commitment to head coach Shaka Smart and the Golden Eagles. The 6-foot-6 prospect from The Hill School (PA) chose Marquette over six high-major offers, per a report from ZagsBlog, citing the program’s culture and developmental vision as key factors.
Inside the Recruitment
Johnston, who plays for the NY Rens Nike EYBL AAU program, held offers from Cal, Creighton, Georgetown, Maryland, Villanova, and Virginia Tech before narrowing his focus to Marquette. The No. 118 overall prospect in 247Sports’ 2026 rankings highlighted the staff’s relational approach: “They made me feel part of their family immediately. I value relationships, growth, and victory – Marquette checked every box.”
Scouting Report
The Pennsylvania guard brings a versatile, two-way skill set to the Big East:
- Stats (2025 EYBL Session 1): 5.3 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 1.3 APG, 4 steals in 3 games
- Strengths: Defensive length, off-ball movement, unselfish play
- Self-Assessment: “I can do everything. Whether we need a rebound, a three, or an assist, I can contribute at a high level.”
Johnston’s agility and 6-foot-6 frame project well for defending multiple positions – a hallmark of Smart’s system. While his perimeter shooting consistency needs refinement, his connective passing and steals-per-game rate (1.3) underscore his high-floor potential.
Team Breakdown
Johnston’s pledge gives Marquette its first 2026 commit and signals early momentum in a critical recruiting cycle. The Golden Eagles have prioritized securing foundational prospects ahead of summer AAU events, mirroring last year’s strategy to lock in targets before Peach Jam. As the staff builds around Johnston’s positional flexibility, expect more commits to follow in what could become a top-25 class.
Future Forecast
Johnston aims to boost his stock during the upcoming EYBL season, where improved shot creation and playmaking could elevate his national ranking. For Marquette, landing a top-150 talent this early reinforces its identity as a destination for multifaceted wings ready to thrive in Smart’s positionless schemes.
