JaJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore aren't that different from many other college basketball players. Two athletes who formed a bond over basketball, all while dreaming of making it to the next level.
But here's where their story differs from that of the masses - they have the rare opportunity to continue their journey together as members of the Boston Celtics.
Johnson, drafted No. 27 overall by the New Jersey Nets in the 2011 NBA Draft, was acquired on a draft-day trade in exchange for Marshon Brooks, who Boston drafted No. 25 overall, and a future second round pick.
Moore took a more direct route to becoming a Celtic, hearing his name called with the team's No. 55 overall pick.
It was a dream come true for the pair, who will have a chance to make their mark on the NBA together, once again.
"I was really excited, just to have somebody you're familiar with, you're comfortable with go through this process with you, makes things a lot more easier for you," Johnson said.
Added Moore, "It's definitely exciting that we got chosen by the same team; definitely didn't notice this was going to happen (in advance). We're both excited, and can't wait to start playing." (via CSNNE)
Both spent four years at Purdue, and they reaped the rewards. Johnson averaged a career-high 20.5 points and 8.6 rebounds last season while Moore averaged 18 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists for the Boilermakers.
They've come a long way in four years - Johnson averaged 5.4 points and 3.1 rebounds in his freshman season while Moore averaged 12.9 points and 3.9 rebounds as a college rookie.
Johnson and Moore exchanged messages throughout the draft process, and both have experienced growth during their time at Purdue.
Moore: "Jajuan has definitely grown a whole lot, confidence wise; and on the court and off the court, being more vocal being more of a leader. He definitely grew a whole lot. He definitely came back, better than ever his senior year, he's a great player and great teammate."
Johnson: "E'Twaun definitely been the one, since day one, ... held it down with our team. It seemed that time-in and time-out, he'd be the one to hit those big shots for us and really led for us on the court. Him playing at a high level since our freshman year, really helped me bring my game up to where his was." (via CSNNE)
Johnson will wear No. 12 in honor of his mother, who wore the numbers when she played. Moore chose No. 55 as a motivational tool - he also liked Jason Williams, who wore the same number.
It's unclear whether or not Johnson and Moore can make an immediate impact with the team. After all, this is an organization that has hoisted 17 NBA Championship trophies and boasts a roster with three Hall of Famers and a potential HOFer in the making in Rajon Rondo.
Johnson probably has the best shot to make some noise, given the Celtics' lack of depth at center and power forward. If Johnson can learn quickly from Kevin Garnett, he could pay immediate dividends.
Moore, on the other hand, may wind up with the Maine Red Claws, the Celtics' affiliate of the NBA D-League. While the Celtics are in need of a quality backup guard behind Ray Allen, it's unlikely that Moore can assume that role immediately.
Whatever winds up happening, Johnson and Moore will have the opportunity to do it together.