NBA DRAFT

June 22, 2023

Jett Howard

Q. Jett, as you're probably aware, many Michigan players are on this Magic roster. How excited are you to join them and the rest of that young squad?

JETT HOWARD: Before that, I'm just kind of taken aback. I didn't really listen to -- I was looking at Kobe (Bufkin). Just got picked, man. There's a lot of emotions going on. I might cry for him, not even me.

To answer your question, it's like a brotherhood within Michigan. I'm just excited to be around people I'm comfortable with and I'm familiar with. I can't wait to get on the team and help.

Q. Just your thoughts on Kobe being drafted, what does that mean, the surprise and the moment for you?

JETT HOWARD: Man, it's my brother. It's my brother, man. We've been through tough times this year. We weren't successful as we wanted to be, but just being in the trenches with him and seeing how well he carried himself and him showing me the ropes as a freshman, it means a lot to me just to see him over there smiling like that. That's for sure.

Q. What's it like for you? People projected you to go a few slots lower. For you to be at this spot going to Orlando, what's this process been like for you?

JETT HOWARD: It's exciting. It feels like my work has paid off. Yeah, I honestly feel like I can't wait to go out to Summer League and just prove that I'm supposed to be in this spot.

Q. How do you feel you'll blend in with this squad, especially around guys like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, who are continuously getting better?

JETT HOWARD: Honestly, I feel like I'll fit in like a glove with my ability to space the floor and make open shots. I've always been able to play with good other players throughout high school and college, so I think I'll fit in really well with them.

Q. How amazing is it to be able to celebrate this occasion with your dad, who not only was your coach but also played with the Magic briefly?

JETT HOWARD: I forgot about that, wow. Yeah, he just told me that. It means the world. These past few months, he's been pushing me to places I've never been conditioning-wise, and just to see my work pay off like that, it's a beautiful moment. All praise to God, honestly.