Johnson played at
Franklin High School in
Elk Grove, California, and
Sheldon High School in
Sacramento, California, where he was a four star prospect before enrolling at the
University of Washington in 2013. He averaged 5.9 points and 1.6 rebounds as a freshman and 4.4 points as well as 1.6 boards per contest his sophomore year. After two years with the Huskies, Johnson transferred to
Cal State Northridge. Coach
Reggie Theus said, "Darin has a very quick step, is strong, gets to the rim quickly, is a good mid-range shooter and his style of play will fit in perfectly at CSUN." Johnson opted to forgo his remaining college eligibility and turned pro at the conclusion of the 2016–17 campaign, entering the
2017 NBA draft. He was invited to attend a pre-draft workout with the
Sacramento Kings. He was one of two players to withdraw from the draft and not return to college. ==Professional career==