by LARRY VAUGHT
Vince Marrow got credit for helping bring a lot of talented players to Kentucky while he was the football team’s recruiting coordinator before leaving last summer to become the executive director of player personnel and recruiting at Louisville.
However, Marrow also played a role in helping UK basketball coach land freshman Jasper Johnson, the son of former UK all-SEC defensive end Dennis Johnson.
“Dennis is a really good friend of mine. He played a big role when my nephew (John McCrear) went to Woodford County (to play basketball),” Marrow said.
Dennis Johnson is the head football coach and athletics director at Woodford County.
“Any kids I have I would want to go play for him. He is just a naturally good guy,” Marrow said. “I didn’t know about his dad (Alvis Johnson) until I started living here in Kentucky.
“I watched Jasper grow up. He would be at my house. Me and Dennis trusted each other with the way we raised kids. I still have a love for Jasper. I am very excited about what he is doing and what he is going to become playing for Mark Pope, another guy that I love.”
Marrow said he believes Jasper Johnson made the college decision he should have.
“My advice to him was that a hometown kid should pick an in-state school. If an in-state school is doing well, why go five or six hours away to play,” Marrow said. “I gave Dennis my advice. Him and his wife did a great job raising Jasper.
“I am glad he is home playing and people get to see him. I was really pushing for him to come to Kentucky. I love basketball and think that Jasper is going to be a dynamic player.”
