WW.NET recently had the time to speak with Rod Benson of the Dakota Wizards in the NBA Developmental League. Rod is a bay area native who played his college ball at UC Berkeley. Rod is also an active Blogger, his work can be seen at http://www.toomuchrodbenson.com/.

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WW.NET: Tell us which team you’re currently playing for in the D-league and how the season has been thus far?

R.B: I’m currently in Bismarck, ND with the Dakota Wizards. Team wise, the season has been a little disappointing so far considering we are 1-3. However, personally I’m currently the league rebounding leader though, so hopefully that can continue

WW.NET: Why did you decide to stick in the D-league rather than go play elsewhere overseas?

R.B: I came back to the D League because I feel there is a lot of interest in me. I also feel that my game is much more NBA ready that overseas. I am definitely more of a complimentary/energy player who can contribute to help a team win vs. being a go to scorer every night.

WW.NET: What are Rod Benson's strengths and weaknesses on the basketball court?

R.B: Strengths: Athletic, shot blocking, guard multiple positions, rebounding (especially offensive rebounds)
Weaknesses: All around strength and offensive consistency

WW.NET: What is the weirdest/funniest story you can share with us from your experiences in the D-league?

R.B: Ha-ha it's tough to answer this question because I pretty much do that on a regular basis. I still think the funniest was when this girl was getting dragged out of the local bar out here. 4 security guards are literally dragging her away and she's fighting them. Out of nowhere she starts yelling "Let hip hop live! Let hip hop live!" She never stopped.

WW.NET: What team or system in the NBA best fits your style of play?

R.B: I definitely feel that the Warriors would be a great fit for me. Any team that likes to run, switch on defense, and run the pick and roll is a great fit for me. I played well for Memphis in a similar system as well.

WW.NET: Don Nelson had some kind words after seeing you play; did you get an invite to camp by the Warriors?

R.B: As far as I know, I was not invited to camp. Every team has a plan and strategy for success. I
didn't fit into their plan at that time. All I hope is that I stand out enough to where a team feels that there is a better plan that involves me.
WW.NET: Ever doubt whether or not you will make it in the NBA? If so, is making it to the NBA what drives and motivates you?

R.B: You'd have to be stupid not to have doubt. But what I think had changed for me specifically is that I know that it's really on me right now. If I do what I need to do, I will get there. If a team is looking to call up a big man, why not the leading rebounder, solid role player, shot blocker, and good locker room guy? If I can be all those things, I set myself up for success.

WW.NET: Did you happen to catch the Warriors playoff run last season? If so, what were your impressions?

R.B: Of course, everybody caught the Warriors playoff run. As a guy who played in the bay area and has kicked it with guys like Matt Barnes and Monta Ellis, I wanted to see them succeed. I'm a Californian so it's always nice to hype a local team.

WW.NET: You have one of the more entertaining blogs in sports, touching on topics such as the fear of a physical/drug test, the "no homo" topic etc.., do you plan out what topic you want to write about or just freelance and see where it takes you?

R.B: I usually do have a good idea of what I'm gonna write about. The funniest writing usually just comes out while I'm in front of the computer. Taking a topic and rolling with it might be my greatest
strength as a blogger.

WW.NET: The "boom got them tho" videos are classic, any plans on making any more?

R.B: I definitely plan on making another “boom tho” video. My plan is to get called up and make it then. Let's pretend it was to Golden State. Who wouldn't want to see Biedrins holla "BOOM THO!"?

WW.NET: Rod Benson gets to have 3 things in the world, what are they?

R.B: Jessica Alba. Megan Good. Madden 09 a year early. The rest can I do myself.

WW.NET: What are you listening to in the iPod right now?

R.B: My IPOD has a wide range of stuff on it. Very wide. Regina Spektor is real hot right now, Plies, DJ Khaled, of course Lil Weezy and Mac Dre always. I'm feelin Massive Attack because of their song in the Assasin's Creed video game commercial. I'm crazy like that.

WW.NET: Do you miss the Bay Area?

R.B: I love the bay. More than the area, I miss the people. It's the only place where people sometimes frown upon being too flashy and too cocky. It's the only place where 5 Toyota Prius' can be found at one 4 way stop. It's the only place where people live the city life but are as friendly as the suburbs. I love it.

WW.NET: Ever visit Warriorsworld.net?

R.B: I Google my name from time to time to keep my ear to the ground. This summer there was some “Rod Benson” mentions on your site and I found it via Google. Thanks for the love.

WW.NET Thanks Rod for spending some time us and please share all comments in the forum

http://forums.warriorsworld.net/main/