USC Basketball's Best Wing Defender Draws Comp To Former Trojans Great

In a recent video from USC Basketball's Twitter account, much praise was levied on incoming sophomore wing Kobe Johnson for his development so far.

One coach on staff went as far as to compare Johnson to a former Trojan great in a few areas of their respective games.

"You know, I remember us watching him on film and thinking 'Hey, we like the intangibles he has'. He reminded us a lot of De'Anthony Melton in terms of the intangible stuff that he brought to the table."

via associate head coach Chris Capko

Melton has proven to be a valuable piece after getting picked by the Suns on draft night to both the Grizzlies and the 76ers. He was traded to Philadelphia for veteran guard Danny Green and a future first round draft pick that Memphis later used on David Roddy.

In all three NBA stops, Melton has shown the same versatility that he displayed in his lone season as a Trojan.

During his time at USC Melton became the first freshman since Dwyane Wade to post totals of 300 points, 150 rebounds, 100 assists, 60 steals and 35 blocks, a remarkable achievement for a guard.

This past season, Melton became a key contributor while the 76ers dealt with backcourt injuries and started in 58 games for Philly this year.

Whether it was off the bench or in the starting lineup, Melton averaged a career high in steals with 1.6 per game for the Sixers in another successful postseason appearance for the team.

Johnson's coaches certainly believe in his development and the Milwaukee native will have a chance at an expanded role this season for the Trojans men's team.

Fans can hardly wait to see Johnson and the rest of the USC hoops squad take the court once again this fall.