Interview with Houston Rockets rookie Nick Johnson

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Sprung- I remember seeing you in 2011 at IS8 in New York...

Nick Johnson- With Sidhiki [Johnson, his teammate at the University of Arizona]..

Sprung- And Khem Birch, who's playing Summer League now. What's the journey been from then until now here in Vegas?

NJ- Man, it's been hectic. Just with AAU and Findlay [Prep] and going to Arizona, it's been pretty crazy. I'm excited to get drafted by a great organization and come out here and play.

Sprung- And what's it like being in the league now? Summer League first year, just what has the process been like here?

NJ- It's been fun. I had the opportunity to play in Orlando as well as here so my legs are kind of getting tired but it's been fun. I've been watching this here for a while so it's great to actually get out there and do it.

Sprung- As far as NBA sanctioned games are concerned, what's been the biggest difference from college?

NJ- I'd have to say spacing. Spacing is a lot more open. You could get to the basket and move a little bit. I believe that's good for me.

Sprung- Do you believe that allows you to be more creative, maybe?

NJ- Yeah, definitely. More freedom to use my athleticism.

Sprung- What is the team trying to get you to improve on?

NJ- Definitely my shooting. Just shoring up my shot and getting more comfortable with the ball, moving without the ball and learning how to play off other people.

Sprung- I see Harden is here. Have you spoken with him?

NJ- Yeah. He's just really encouraging. Obviously he's a star in this league so it's good to hear from him.

Sprung- There have been a lot of changes to the Rockets this summer. You have Ariza coming in. What do you think your role's going to be for the team?

NJ- I'm just gonna do what I do. Give that energy and being a complete player, and I have no doubt that I'll make an impact.

Sprung- What do you think you could do to make the biggest impact for Houston?

NJ- Just bringing energy and being an all-around player.

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