Virginia Commit Johann Grünloh Excited to Compete in the ACC
By Houston Wilson
German center Johann Grünloh has committed to Virginia, a major pickup for Ryan Odom and the Cavaliers. The 6'11" 19-year-old has already played professionally in Germany and found success at a high level. Locker Room Access caught up with Grünloh to talk about his decision and what he plans to bring to the program.
NEWS: German 7-footer Johann Grunloh has committed to Virginia, his club Rasta Vechta announced. Grunloh, a projected 2nd-round pick, is an elite shot-blocker who shot 35% for 3 this season.
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 28, 2025
Major pickup for Ryan Odom in one of the top internationals pursuing the college route pic.twitter.com/LA6HO70YJR
“It was a pretty quick decision for me. I had not thought that much about the college option until recently, but then a lot of schools really started talking to me. I had a great Zoom call with Coach Ryan Odom and the rest of the staff. Their message was very clear, and I just liked everything they said compared to the other schools.”
Grünloh went on to discuss how he envisions himself fitting into Coach Odom’s system, highlighting his strengths on both ends of the floor.
“One of the biggest things I am going to bring to the Virginia program is my rim protection. I am going to constantly block and contest shots. Offensively, I am really a playmaking big. I can pick and pop well, and I think I will be able to shoot the ball well from deep. I think I will also be able to pass well for a big man in Coach Odom’s system. You will see me setting a lot of screens and just a big man that is always active in the pick and roll.”
Having reviewed film of Odom’s past teams, Grünloh expressed excitement about the style of play and how it aligns with his game.
“I like how he likes to play fast. I think that fits me really well, too. He likes to run up and down the court and play well in transition. He also loves to have a lot of shooters on the court, which I really like.”
Though Grünloh has primarily focused on European leagues, he is aware of the prestige of the ACC and the programs within it. He spoke about the honor of competing against some of college basketball’s most storied programs.
“It is a honor. There are a lot of big names in the conference that have had success like Duke and North Carolina. I have not watched a lot of college basketball, but of course, everyone has heard of Duke and North Carolina, so it is a true honor to play against them.”
Grünloh gave fans a glimpse of what they can expect from him on the court.
“On the court, they can expect a guy with a lot of positive energy. When something good happens, I will always be freaking out. If I am on the court or on the bench, I will always be cheering my team on and trying to get the crowd involved.”
Come let us know what you think of all the latest Wahoo additions on the Locker Room Access Virginia forum. And take the time to learn about our partner Fan Fund, the credit card that gives back to your favorite student-athletes.