The Chicago native has played in Sweden, Finland, Germany, Cyprus and South Korea in recent years and has already proven a valuable addition for the Hawks this season.

He currently sits behind only Melbourne centre Josh Boone has pulled down more rebounds this season, with Johnson embracing the NBL’s physicality.

“I like it so far. It’s a physical league, it’s up and down [style] which suits my style of play,” Johnson said.

“In Europe, it’s a much slower half-court type of game and I’d much rather go up and down.

“That’s my type of game and that means everyone’s having fun and that’s basketball should be about.

“We’ve had rough first three games on the road but we’re very excited to get back in front of a home crowd this Sunday and get back on the right track.”