Kennesaw, GA - The future of the Lady Owls looks bright as the core of youthful talent on this year's roster showcases nine freshman. Recently, the future of Kennesaw State women's basketball grew even stronger as head coach Colby Tilley and company announced the signing of North Clayton High School star point guard Ashley Johnson.

Johnson, who played her prep career for head coach Kimleon Turner, is a four-year starter for North Clayton and is coming off an impressive junior year in which she was an All-Area selection as well as team Most Valuable Player.

"I am very pleased with the signing of Ashley," said Kennesaw State head coach Colby Tilley. "With our move from Division II to Division I next season, the addition of Ashley will make that transition smoother."

Johnson averaged double-digits in both scoring and assists while shooting 60 percent from the field last season and could compete quickly for playing time at point guard in 2005-06.

"Our team has to have a point guard who knows the game and Ashley is that person for us," added Tilley. "She comes from a solid basketball background and a successful program which will make her transition to college basketball easier."

One of three children, Johnson expressed her like of Kennesaw State's campus as well as the togetherness of the team.

"The school grew on me the more I checked it out," said Johnson in a recent interview with a local paper. "I think I can come in and work hard and do what I have to do to help the team."