James Young signs Jordan shoe deal

Celtics rookie James Young played his first six minutes in garbage time yesterday against the Rockets, amassing six points. The 19 year old downplayed his excitement before admitting playing in his first NBA game was a thrill. Via Jay King of MassLive.com:

“Everybody was blowing me up off of six points,” he said one day later after practice at the American Airlines Center. “And I’m like, it’s only six points. Chill.”

“Actually, it was crazy,” Young said. “I actually didn’t think about it as much. I was kind of nervous though. I missed the free throw right after (my first NBA basket, an and-1). I’ve got to watch some film with (skill development assistant) Ron (Nored). It was crazy, though.”

The excitement doesn't end there for Young, as Jordan brand has already contacted him for a shoe deal. Young said the possibility left him "speechless," and noted he admired (Michael) Jordan growing up:

“It was crazy. You’ve got so many great guys signed with Jordan like that, so it’s just a big family. And they welcomed me to it,” he said. “I always looked up to (Michael) Jordan. I mean, everybody did. He’s a great player, one of the best players in the NBA. Once I got that opportunity to sign with Jordan, it was mind-blowing. It’s a blessing. It’s a great opportunity for me.”

Young will join the likes of Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, Kawhi Leonard, Carmelo Anthony, Russell Westbrook, Ray Allen, Joe Johnson, LaMarcus Aldridge, Jabari Parker, and teammate Jared Sullinger among others in the Jordan family. Not a bad start for the UK rookie.