Nick Johnson has joined Hapoel Holon for the Basketball Champions League group stages after the departure of Ahmad Caver and will make his debut for the purples in their backcourt when they take on Rio Breogan on Wednesday (9:30 Israel time)
The 30 year old guard attended the University of Arizona and entered the 2014 NBA Draft after having won the PAC-10 Player of the Year Award and was selected by Houston in the 2nd round, 42nd overall. Johnson played in 28 games for the Rockets in the 2014/15 season and was then part of trade that saw him head to the Nuggets, however, he did was released by the Nuggets after appearing in the preseason. Since then, the Gilbert, Arizona native has played in the G-League, France, Germany, Turkey and most recently in China.
In order to learn more about Amit Sherf’s new shooting guard, The Sports Rabbi spoke to a number of his teammates to see what makes Nick Johnson tick.
Arizona Teammate Zach Peters: Nick is a natural born leader. He is the perfect combo of poise and tenacity. The most athletic player in college basketball while at Arizona. I have played with a lot of great players but nobody like Nick. He is unique. Great person too.
Nick Johnson – Photo Credit: FIBA
G-League Teammates:
Akeem Richmond: Great player even better person. He’s very unselfish on and off the court. I really loved having him on my team!
Cameron Rundles: I love Nick! He was one of my favorite teammates. High energy. Loving heart. Killer mentality on the court. Loving family man. Great smile. He’s a great get for any team!
Jaron Blossomgame: Nick is a great person and player. He’s a floor general with great leadership qualities. I enjoyed bring his teammate and must admit that he was a big reason for our team success. He’s a person who will be vocal in the locker room and will do whatever it takes to him.
Andre Spight: He’s a great leader. Always include everyone in activities off the court and on the court he is always making sure everyone is in the right position and getting the touches that they need.
Tucker Haymond: His game he’s got a high IQ, very smart player. Athletic. He can impact the games in many ways as well as scoring. Personality he’s one of the funniest teammates I’ve ever had. Great character, he’s one of my favorite teammates I’ve had. Brightens the locker room vibe and is a winner.
Nick Johnson and Tamir Blatt – Photo Credit: FIBA
Nanterre Teammates:
Julian Gamble: Nick is a great guy, he’s one of my favorite teammates that I had in my years, The time we had in Nanterre was fantastic. He can score the ball at all 3 levels, incredible athlete and he’s also a very-very good defender, but even more so then that he’s just a really-really good guy, great teammate and someone I still stay in contact with to this day. I wish him the best of luck going out and playing alongside one of my best friends, CJ Harris.
Adas Juskevicius: Nick is really strong and athletic guard. Strong sides: pick and roll play, middle range shots, fast break options, penetration till the end against big guys! Not a greatest 3pt shooter, but still solid. He is positive, and bringing good mood to the locker room!
Mouphtaou Yarou: I only spent a month with him in that team. He is a team guy in the locker room keeping everyone involved and cracking jokes. During my month there he made me feel like I was part of the team the whole year. He is a vocal leader. As you might already know he can score from everywhere in the court. Very physical and very athletic.
Turk Teammates:
Polat Kaya: I’m happy for him to sign with Holon! I like his game firstly, his athleticism and aggressiveness on both ends are making him so valuable. He also increased his shooting ability from beyond the arc and this makes him more dangerous. Besides that, he is a great teammate, glue guy and perfect locker room guy.
Johnny O’Bryant: I’ve been knowing Nick since high school as we are the same class. He’s a great teammate. Can score and run the offense as well as defend. He’s one of the best two way guards in Europe I think.
Nick Johnson – Photo Credit: FIBA
Bayern Munich Teammates:
Danilo Barthel: Nick is a great guy. Fun, outgoing person and great for the locker room. I had a great time with him in Munich! Last time I met him in Turkey he was more mature and got used to the European style of basketball and life. He will be a great addition for the team. Basketball wise and as a person!
All the best
Bryce Taylor: Nick is a super talented combo guard. He’s had great success over recent years in various high level leagues. He brings experience, athleticism, good on ball defense, shot making and creation to his team.
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