Winfield grad signs with WVU Tech women's basketball

WINFIELD, W.Va. -- Jessica Johnson, a graduate of Winfield High School, signed with the WVU Institute of Technology's women's basketball team Wednesday at a ceremony held at the high school.

A resident of Winfield, Johnson says she's had a basketball in her hand since she was in the second grade. And if she sees her plan through, she'll keep one there for at least another three years as she plays for Tech's new women's head coach, Jim Fout.

As the team's first recruit under Fout's leadership, and with his hopes of developing a top-notched team following the graduation of many varsity players, Fout said to Johnson, "If you're as excited as I am and ready to go to work, it won't be long."

Johnson plans to study to become a math teacher, which will require three years at Tech and two years at WVU, a challenge she's looking forward to taking on, she said.

"I'm excited. I know it's going to be tough at first, but it's just another transition I'm going to have to go through to get where I want. But I think it's something I can make it through," Johnson said.

Winfield's girl's basketball coach Paul Sutherland said that Johnson is an extremely hard worker, and he is pleased to see her be able to attain the goals she has set for herself.

Johnson wanted to express her appreciation to those who have helped her get to this point in her playing career, saying, "I was really grateful to Paul (Sutherland) for helping me. And my family for always being there, no matter what, through all the sports I've done."

Johnson expects to begin classes in the fall.