NBA Draft Blog Interview with Chris Johnson

Consistency is a basketball trait that often gets overlooked for numbers and accolades.  From the moment Chris Johnson became a member of the Dayton basketball team, he was a significant contributor.   If needed, he could score 20 points, but he could also play tough defense, and is a great rebounder for his size.  Chris’s Dayton teams won 94 games over his 4 years there, including 4 straight post-season appearances.  This past season, Chris received his second consecutive Honorable Mention All-Atlantic 10 nod, to go along with the Atlantic 10 Most Improved he received his sophomore year (Chris was also the NIT MVP that season).  Having the ability to score, rebound, defend, as well as a willingness to put team first, have put Chris squarely on the radar of NBA teams.  Chris is scheduled to work out for a bunch of NBA teams in the coming weeks, and I had the chance to talk to him briefly before he boarded a plane to head to Oklahoma City for a workout with the Thunder.  Chris discusses his game, how he can help a team immediately and more:

Chris on the development of his game at Dayton:

“I think the biggest thing that developed was my understanding of what the coaches wanted from me, and being able to do that and improve on a day-in and day-out basis.  It was tough switching coaches after 3 seasons, but learning and having to adapt to a new system helped me as a player.”

Chris on his strengths as a player: 

“My bigger strengths would be being able to knock down shots, rebounding and being a tough defender.”

Chris on areas he wants to improve:

“I am working on being able to beat guys off the dribble, taking them one on one.  Also, I want to get better at being able to create more for my teammates.”

Chris on how he envisions his immediate role at the next level:

“I can come in and bring energy to the team, doing all of the little things and dirty work that need to get done.  I’ll do whatever my coaches and team wants me to do, and I know I can help on defense and with rebounding.”

Chris on what he wants teams and fans to know about him:

“I will come in and work hard and be a great teammate.  Anything that needs to be done, especially the little things, I will take care of them on a day-to-day basis.”

I want to thank Chris for his time and I wish him the best of luck as he looks to fulfill his dream of getting to the NBA.  I also want to thank Pinnacle Management Corp. for setting up this interview.  Chris is coming off a solid 4-year career at Dayton, where he made consistent improvements each season.  Watching Chris play, you get a sense that the pro game may be much better suited for his talents and style of play.  He has the ability to play and guard multiple positions, and has a work ethic that NBA teams love.  Don’t be surprised when you hear the word spreading about him before the NBA Draft.

Check back in the coming weeks for more great interviews and scouting reports as we head towards the 2012 NBA Draft.  Follow me on Twitter – @NBADraftBlog – for updates, leave your comments below, or feel free to email me at ed@nbadraftblog.com