WW.NET: Biggest challenge in his rookie season?

The biggest challenge of my whole rookie season was adjusting to how long the season was and how it appeared to last forever. It seem like it never ended. I only played 30 or 35 games in high school and my one year at North Carolina. That, to me, was the biggest adjustment. It’s not playing the game of basketball, because that is what you’ve been doing your whole life. But, the length of the season was, for me, the biggest challenge and toughest adjustment.

WW.NET: What are you working on to improve your game this offseason?

Overall, I’m just trying to become a better basketball player, a more consistent player. I’d like to include a lot of different options - more versatility - to my game and make it more difficult for a defender to guard me. I'm specifically talking about trying to break down my guy one-on-one and hitting open jump shots. Also, I’m working in the weight room with Mark Grabow everyday to get stronger. Like I said, it’s a long season and I don’t want my body to get beat up during the season and I want to keep myself healthy.

WW.NET: Best moment from your rookie season?

The best part for me was getting more opportunities towards the middle and the end of the season. Being able to be part of the team that was trying to push for the playoffs was special. The fact that Coach Nelson had more confidence in me and did not hesitate to put me in tough situations as the season progressed, that was probably the best part of the season.

WW.NET: Which NBA player do you compare your game to and why?

I like Chris Bosh. We have similar body types. He’s left-handed and I’m left-handed. I like a lot of the things he does, especially his versatility inside and out and his ability to block shots. I try to take a few things from him and, of course, K.G. I really want to do my own thing and establish my own identity, but I like what those two guys do on the basketball court.

WW.NET: What do you feel the team needs to improve on going into next season?

I think we are a pretty talented team, overall, as far as position wise at every spot. We won 48 games last season and that didn't happen by accident. We should have been in the playoffs. We are really athletic, really fast and really young. If we can continue to build on that style and also tighten up our defense and take away easy baskets, I think we can be pretty good next year. And, I think our young guys, me included, have a lot of room for growth.


WW.NET: Nellie recently said he envisions a larger role for you this season, how do you feel about the chance at a larger role?

It’s good to hear. It’s good that the coach is going to have confidence in me to get out there and play. But at the same time, I still have to do my part to earn his trust. I have to play at a higher level consistently and give the team something when I'm on the floor. But, I'm confident that I can do that and I think I proved that at certain times this past season. But, I have to produce and help us get some W's; I can’t just go out there and take up space. I still have to bring something to the team and help us win.

Special Thanks to Raymond Ridder and Brandan Wright