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 Johnson |
Last season, just one year removed from high school, Johnson played in 78 of the team's 82 games, averaging 5.1 ppg (16th among rookies), 2.3 rpg and 0.8 apg, shooting .374 FGs, .323 3FGs and .736 FTs. He showed flashes of his potential, but still suffered from growing pains.
This season has been a different story, especially as of late. As of January 9, Johnson had started four consecutive games, and his season averages were up to 6.5 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 1.1 apg. Even more impressive than the numbers, Johnson has been called on to be a defensive stopper and has looked more confident and comfortable on the court as the season has progressed.
Born May 5, 1980 in Washington DC, "D.J." attended the University of Cincinnati for one year (1999-00) where he was named the Conference USA Freshman of the Year and earned third-team All-Conference USA honors. He played collegiately for the intense Bob Huggins.
Johnson averaged 26.1 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 3.9 apg while leading Maine Central Institute to a 34-4 record and the New England Prep School league championship as a high school senior. Following the season, he was named Parade Magazine's National Player of the Year.
Cody Heermans (Decatur Georgia): DerMarr I am talking to you from my class in Decatur High School, and we want to know what was it like playing against Michael Jordan.
DerMarr Johnson: It was fun to see him play up close, but I never got the chance to play against him.
K-Dogg (Atlanta): With the unfortunate injury to Toni Kukoc, I expect that your minutes will go up even more from what you've been getting thus far. How are you handling your increased role on the team? I hear you're kicking everyone's butts in practice!
DerMarr Johnson: I have to be ready to step in and do what the coaches want me to do. Injuries are a part of this game, and I just have to be ready.
Zachary : Dermarr, I was at the game against Boston on Saturday and I noticed in pregame warm ups Toni Kukoc was standing behind you watching each shot and talking. How much has he helped you imprve your game?? Best Wishes!!
DerMarr Johnson: I was a big fan of the Bulls growing up. So it is great to play with him. We both play similar games, and to have him help out with my shot is a great.
Sam Zainer Madison WI: Hey Demarr I was wondering what was the biggest adjustment you had to make coming from college to the NBA?
DerMarr Johnson: All the traveling!
larry blue springs: If you weren't playing for the Hawks what other team would you like to play for?
DerMarr Johnson: I would want to help any team win a championship, so I really don't have another team that I want to play for. Right now, I am with the Hawks.
Corey (Provo): Dermarr, I have seen some of your high flying ways and I want to know if you are going to be in the slam dunk contest? If yes what can we expect?
DerMarr Johnson: I don't think I am going to be in the slam dunk contest. I don't like all the attention.
JAIME MADRID SPAIN: Hi DJ! What positioin do you like to play - shooting guard or small forward? Are you working to be stronger? You have tremendous potential. Congratulations on being a different player!
DerMarr Johnson: I think I am a shooting guard. I like to play defense against the other shooting guards in the league. I am working all the time to get stronger, and have gotten a lot strongers since I have been in the NBA.
washington dc: I want to know what you will do after the NBA?
DerMarr Johnson: I am young and I still have a lot of years left to play, so I haven't really put much thought into what I am going to do after I am done playing.
613's finest: Dermarr how do you think the return of Theo Ratliff will effect the team in your drive for the playoffs? By the way, you're money in NBA 2002 for PlayStation 2.
DerMarr Johnson: Theo would help any team. He is a great defensive presence in the middle. He will really help us make a drive for the playoffs. And thanks for the PlayStation shoutout.
carthahge : Who do you think is the most suprising team in NBA right now?
DerMarr Johnson: At first it was the Pistons, but now I would have to say it's the Wizards.
mrpossum: Where do you like to grab a bite or chill when you're in Atlanta?
DerMarr Johnson: I like to eat at Benihana or at home. I really like it at home.
DJ FAN: What team do you think is the hardest to compete against in the Eastern Conference?
DerMarr Johnson: Milwaukee. They have the Big Dog and Co. They also have a good bench. They just have a all-around good team.
Lang, Athens Georgia: DJ, what do you think you need to work on in your game to make you a great player?
DerMarr Johnson: I need to continue to get stronger, and I need to work on my ballhandling.
drzachary (atlanta): I love your unique brand of crushing Cincy defense. How well do you think Huggins's squad will do this year?
DerMarr Johnson: Cincy has been doing real well. They are a bit surprise team this year. Coach Huggins always gets his guys to play great defense.
Torrie: Dermarr, I've been watching you play better this year than last, which player/coach would you say helped contribute to your development the most?
What is your "natural" position?
DerMarr Johnson: Shareef has helped me an awful lot as a player. All of my coaches have helped me equal parts in becoming the ball players that I am today.
Jermaine: Who is the toughest guy you have had to guard so far in your short NBA career?
DerMarr Johnson: Paul Pierce is the toughest guy to guard. He can take any shot he wants, and make shots even when he's been well guarded.
Michael, Athens: Dermarr you think the Hawks can turn things around in the second half and sneak in the playoff race?
DerMarr Johnson: Yes, I don't think you can count anyone out. Once we get guys back from injuries, then we can make a good push for the playoffs.
DerMarr Johnson: Thank to all the fans for asking questions, and I was glad to talk to you. Keep watching the Hawks.
