A New Chapter for the Gamecocks Alum
Former South Carolina guard Meechie Johnson has inked an 'Exhibit 10' contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that secures him a guaranteed spot in the team’s training camp slated for the end of September.
The agreement gives the Lakers the flexibility to assess Johnson during the preseason, with the possibility of converting him into a two‑way contract, a standard roster spot, or a re‑assignment to the G League affiliate.
Johnson’s college résumé reads like a steady climb. After transferring from Ohio State to the University of South Carolina in 2022, he became a mainstay in the Gamecocks’ backcourt, starting at both point guard and shooting guard. In the 2023‑24 season he earned All‑SEC honors and posted career‑high numbers of 14.7 points, 3.6 assists, 3.7 rebounds and a steal per game, despite the team missing the postseason.
His three‑year stint with South Carolina was marked by resilience. Even as the program struggled for post‑season berths, Johnson consistently delivered double‑digit scoring and reliable playmaking, culminating in a strong showing during the 2025‑26 campaign that highlighted his development.
The Road to the Lakers
Before joining the Lakers, Johnson had a brief stint on the Miami Heat’s summer league roster, though a lingering injury limited his participation. The experience, however, kept him in the professional spotlight and sharpened his preparation for the upcoming evaluation.
The Lakers enter the preseason with an open two‑way slot and several G League vacancies, making Johnson a realistic candidate for one of those positions. If he impresses during the exhibition games, the franchise could offer him a full‑time contract or keep him in the developmental league for further growth.
For a player who has navigated transfers, injuries and the grind of college basketball, the 'Exhibit 10' deal represents more than a contract; it is a chance to prove that his collegiate success can translate to the NBA stage.