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UCLA senior Kobe Johnson said this week that he is enjoying the NBA predraft process and is eager to prove himself to teams in private workouts against his peers.
Johnson was a Big Ten All-Defensive team selection this past season, averaging 7.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.6 steals on 36.2% shooting from 3-point range. He ranked 19th in the country in defensive box plus-minus (plus-5.0).
The 6-foot-6 guard participated in the G League Elite Camp last week, averaging nine points and 3.5 rebounds in two scrimmage games. He has also worked out with three teams, including the Golden State Warriors, and wants to showcase two key areas of his skill set in those settings.
“No. 1 is just prioritizing that I’m the best defender in this draft,” Johnson said on Thursday. “That is something that I’m trying to come out and show every single workout, every single time I’m performing, no matter who is watching. And I’m a great 3-point shooter. I know my role coming into the NBA and what it is going to be, so to be able to be a great shooter with my role is very key.”
Johnson established himself as a three-time all-conference defensive team honoree in college between UCLA and USC. He was considered one of the top defenders in the country and developed into a consistent shooter from beyond the arc, making him a high-level 3-and-D prospect.
The 22-year-old is considered a potential second-round pick, given his abilities and versatility on both ends of the court. He is having a strong predraft process and should continue to be a hot name on the circuit, with additional workouts scheduled in the coming weeks.
For now, Johnson wants to continue to perform well in those sessions and enjoy the process. He is looking forward to the upcoming month before the draft on June 25-26.
“It is going to be a hectic month,” Johnson said. “I’m just trying to take everything day by day and try to enjoy every single moment of it. This is the only time I’ve gone through this, and the only time I’m going to go through this, so I’m trying to cherish every single moment and be a dog every time I’m out there.”
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