KIA SHOOTING STARS

February 14, 2026

Jalen Johnson

Press Conference

Q. How was it?

JALEN JOHNSON: It was fun. I had fun doing it. I was outside my box for that, so it was cool.

Q. Did you have a strategy coming in?

JALEN JOHNSON: I just hoped I didn't airball. That was priority number one. Basketball is really no different.

Q. What do you think about the current All-Star format of U.S. versus the World tomorrow?

JALEN JOHNSON: I think it's cool. I think it's something that I'm looking forward to. Obviously it's the first year, so I'm excited to see it. To happen in a city like L.A., I think it'll be good.

Q. There's been some stuff going on recently where a couple G Leaguers have tried to go back to college. Do you think they should be able to do that?

JALEN JOHNSON: Personally, I don't really think so. If you declare for the draft, I think that's your way of saying, I'm ready to be a pro. I also feel like it kind of takes away opportunity for other kids who are looking to get discovered and other kids who are looking for a chance.

I mean, everybody has their own path, and I'm not one to judge.

Q. These are obviously bigger picture questions, but do you have an idea or do you have a thought on who the current best player in the league is?

JALEN JOHNSON: Probably you've got to say Nikola Jokic. He's been dominant for so long, and what he does on a nightly basis is pretty impressive.

Q. Do you remember watching All-Star Weekend?

JALEN JOHNSON: Yeah, I mean, it was just always fun watching with my family. The Dunk Contest, always looking forward to turning it on and watching it on TV with my family.

Q. How do you reflect upon that childhood watching to now actually playing?

JALEN JOHNSON: Yeah, I'm just going to live in the moment. In a couple years I'm going to look back and really reminisce, like, I was here. It's kind of cool.