MBB HOKIES 17-18 | MEDIA GUIDE

DIRECTOR OF PLAYER PERSONNEL Q & A W I T H DE V I N J OHNSON Q: Talk a little bit about the use of iPads by the team. DJ: The iPads are accessible to the players and coaches, so that they can watch film that we provide for them when they want. We compare and contrast with other players whom we feel they are similar to in the NBA, previously or currently, to give them a better visual toward style of play. Also, iPads in our program are used to show clips of our players, and they allow us to coach the players through technology. iPads have allowed our staff to be more efficient in and out of the office when it comes to scouting, recruiting and communication with our current players. Adding iPads to our program will be very beneficial when we look back on it at the end of the season. Q: Are there any improvements in the team app, and how it’s used? DJ: The app is totally focused toward accountability and communication. The app update has provided a way for us to check classes and receive notification of a current location. Also, we are able to communicate in a group setting, along with a private feature for one of conversations. The app is working well within what we do and how we work, and we are really pleased with how things are going within the Virginia Tech men’s basketball app world. Q: How can the use of technology help in the breakdown of player performance and tendencies? DJ: The use of technology helps in a tremendous way because it gives the best accurate data possible when it comes to details of the game. Most of the players are visual learners, so it helps them concentrate on what it is they are viewing, and they can apply it to the court and training. Also, we find that our kids are always using some sort of technology during their every-day life, so why not get inside of our players’ world and try to teach with the tools they use every day. Q: How important is it for you stay ahead of the curve in relation to what is happening out there? DJ: It is extremely important to stay ahead of the curve because the “curve” changes so much. You always have to look and research different technological ideas and see how those can relate to helping our program. Some things work, and some don’t. It’s all about being open and creative with ideas while networking. Also, our players help us stay above the curve through the feedback they give on various items. Q: Talk a little about what you are learning and sharing from others in your field. What’s the next big thing? DJ: Currently, I’m learning what student-athletes like the most, as far as how they learn and being able to create things for them to stay effective, while having fun doing it. We, as a program, want to give what is best and new for our guys, so trying new ways to film and the content we are providing is key. I would rather not tell you the next big thing because then others would know. We like to keep our audience guessing on what’s next. #getB3 TTER #ThisIsHome 83