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3x3 Tips from the Pros
Q&A with Jon J Johnson
Jon J Johnson a.k.a. JJ, is a powerhouse on the court. Both offensively and defensively, JJ can control opponents and move where he wants to.
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JJ is a player/coach for the Westminster Warriors Men's team but when summer is here, JJ is outside balling as much as he can be!
What might strike you most though is his passion for the game. As he says below "Heart is just as important as skill!!" and that helped JJ and his 3x3 Asphalt Assassins teammates get through to playing in the Red Bull Reign World Finals in Canada this summer.
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Like the other players, we can be very proud to call him a friend and supporter of the GG3x3. Check out what he has to say about 3x3, UK ball, Jab music and...badminton.​
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GG3x3: What got you into 3x3?
JJ: I started playing at Valentine's park as a youngster, probably about 14 years old. and it was always 1/2 court 3x3. So Naturally that is what I played. Recently Tarryn and Biscuit recruited me for various 3x3 competitions and things blew up. Click to see Tarryn and Biscuit's Q&As.
GG3x3: ​What’s your training schedule like ahead of a 3x3 tournament?
JJ: The best way to prepare for anything is to have a good night's rest and a sensible breakfast once awake. I always have a music playlist which gets me in the mood. Mine is currently 'Jab' (soca music from Grenada), which I listen to when travelling to the venue. Once at the venue, I get some shots up to get used to the ring and also practice different finishes as the ball bounces differently on different rings.
Lastly, I have a little self-talk, remind myself to play like it is the last time I am able to play and not to feel disappointed with my self at the end of it.
GG3x3: ​What’s the best tip you can give to a 3x3 player?
JJ: Heart is just as important as skill!!
GG3x3: ​What's your go to move?
JJ: Stop on a dime mid-range J.
GG3x3: ​Do you think playing 3x3 has helped other aspects of your general 5x5 game?
JJ: It makes you tough. I would never be as good at 5x5 if I didn't learn the lessons from 3x3.
GG3x3: ​If you could pick one player in the NBA or WNBA to play with, who would it be and why?
JJ: LeBron. He is just the guy!!
GG3x3: ​What’s your favourite UK court?
JJ: Moberly, home court of my team, the Westminster Warriors.
GG3x3: What are your thoughts on the growth of 3x3 basketball in the UK and about 3x3 being in the Olympics for the first time next year?
JJ: I love it! Hopefully it will bring back the mindset and attitudes from my youth and breed a new generation of players who grind rather than expect.
GG3x3: Tell us something about you that people might not know?
JJ: I'm sick at badminton!
