NBA DRAFT

July 29, 2021

Keon Johnson

THE MODERATOR: Start us off with an opening statement about what you'll bring to your new team.

KEON JOHNSON: Something I'll bring to my new team is on the defensive end I'll be able to defend multiple positions, being versatile. And then on the offensive end, being able to knock down open shots around the perimeter but also getting to the rim and being a playmaker.

Q. Could you talk about your style of play?

KEON JOHNSON: I'm defensive-minded first. Defense opens up my offensive game. The more stops that I get on defense, the more that I fuel on the offensive end. On the offensive end, I can play in the half court but also can handle the ball in the open court and facilitate for my teammates, as well.

Q. Do you believe that your offense will bring a different type of composure to the Clippers, seeing that they were lacking more offensive output at the guard position?

KEON JOHNSON: I do believe that what I bring to the offensive end will be able to help the Clippers. I also believe that throughout this whole process my game has completely grown and changed from whenever I was last seen at Tennessee.

Q. The Clippers really pride themselves on defense. That's something coach Ty Lue really stresses there. One of the quick ways for young players to get playing time is playing defense. How do you see that part of your game translating into the league, and is that something you feel you can make an impact right away on that end?

KEON JOHNSON: I feel that my defensive ability is what brought me to the league. But I also believe that within the league I'll be able to guard multiple positions and fit in anywhere on the court with the Clippers.

Q. The Clippers are coming off their first appearance in the Conference Finals. This team is almost like a little key piece away from getting over the hump. Do you believe that you are the answer, and how are you going to come into this team and kind of plug and chug alongside guys like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, if he re-signs, and other guys?

KEON JOHNSON: I do believe I can come in and make an immediate impact as a younger player. I'm open to learning from the vets. Got some great vets in the organization, and I feel that with bringing me that I can potentially help the team get back to where it started.