Braxton Key to Alabama: Crimson Tide Land 4-Star SF Prospect

Avery Johnson has yet to coach a game for the Alabama Crimson Tide, but he is already leaving his mark on the program. On Wednesday, Johnson secured the commitment of 4-star small forward Braxton Key, per ESPN's Jeff Borzello.

"Coach Avery Johnson was an NBA coach, he knows what it takes to get to next level," Key said, per Paul Biancardi of ESPN. "I was very comfortable with assistant Bob Simon who recruited me since the ninth grade. I wanted to do something to be different."

Key is the No. 13 small forward in the 2016 recruiting class, per 247Sports' composite rankings. He's also ranked 68th overall and second in the state of Virginia.

Borzello noted how big this news is for Johnson and Alabama:

The other top recruit headed to Tuscaloosa next year is 5-star shooting guard Terrance Ferguson. Ferguson is the second-best player at his position in the country in 247Sports' composite rankings. Jerry Meyer of 247Sports believes the combination of Ferguson and Key will work out for the Tide on the wing:

In the Biancardi interview, Key added he now hopes to help lure Marques Bolden—the No. 1 center in the country—to Alabama next.

While not a great shooter, Key is a dynamic playmaker who can slash to the basket to set up his own shot or pass off to a teammate. If he can develop a consistent jumper from long range, he'll be incredibly difficult to guard.

The Oak Hill Academy star will also give the Tide immediate help defensively since he can match up with shooting guards and power forwards, in addition to his natural position on the wing.

Success on the recruiting trail doesn't equate to automatic success on the court, but Johnson is well on his way to building a great squad to compete in the SEC after adding Key to the ranks.

Note: Star rankings are courtesy of 247Sports.