CBS 58's Hometown Athlete: Nicolet's Jalen Johnson becomes face of the franchise with Atlanta Hawks
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- There was no plan B for Jalen Johnson.
"This was the only dream I ever had. I couldn't picture myself doing anything other than what I'm doing right now. It's weird to say that I didn't have a backup plan," Johnson said.
The Wisconsin native is living his dream at just 24 years old. Less than a decade after leading Nicolet High School to a state championship, Johnson is an NBA All-Star with the Atlanta Hawks. He's in the middle of a breakout season, averaging around 22 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists per game.
"The consistency of everything, you know, I've been blessed to be healthy throughout the season.... just being able to not take anything for granted and just continue to put in that work."
As he emerged as a superstar this season, the Hawks traded away Trae Young, making Jalen the face of the franchise.
"It's exciting, just to know you're in a bigger light now, so everything matters and I'm ready for it."
With the 6'8" forward leading the charge, the Hawks are in position to make the Eastern Conference play-in tournament, actually keeping his hometown Bucks out.