Speak on your rookie season, what were the highs and lows? Adjustments both on and off the court?
My rookie year was on the 1998 World Champion Bulls team with Michael Jordan so it was phenomenal season. I had played overseas and in the CBA the year before so I was used to the travel but the level of competition obviously was an adjustment. I was already married with a child so getting settled into Chicago took sometime as well.
How was it playing with the '98 NBA Champs? Specifically, how was it being teammates with MJ?
It was a huge thrill being a part of that team. The experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I had grown up a MJ fan so to play with him was special. I enjoyed being on the team because he had high expectations for everyone. In addition there were some really good guys on the team who took me in and helped me out.
How was your time with the Warriors? Still follow or keep up with the Warriors? Thoughts on their current players and team?
While my time with the Warriors was very brief I did enjoy it. I have not followed the Warriors closely so I cannot comment on the players. I do really like their draft pick of Curry. Actually current assistant coach Russell Turner coached me at Wake.
Favorite coach to play for?
I liked playing for both Phil Jackson and Jerry Sloan. Very different styles but I liked them both.
Do you feel you met your full potential? If not, what would you re-do or change? Any regrets from your time in the NBA?
I think I did reach my fullest potential. There are always regrets and things you wish you could change. I changed agents a few times and wish I had done a better job with handling that. Obviously I wish I had played better while in the league so I could have stuck with a team. All in all I am very pleased with my career and the opportunities I had.
You had the opportunity to play basketball all around the world, what was the best situation/experience? Which situation didn't work out like you had hoped?
I really liked my time in Chicago and Utah. I also really enjoyed my time in Boise Idaho with the Stampede of the CBA. My season overseas in Russia was tough since I spent 6 months over there without my wife and kids.
Rusty, what have you been up to lately?
Prior to coming onto the Wake staff in May I was the AD and Head Basketball Coach at Forsyth Country Day School in Lewisville, NC. I have been running a basketball academy year round for the last 5 years as well.
How is the coaching coming along? Would you like to move up to the NBA eventually or stay at the college level?
I really enjoy coaching and having a chance to develop relationships with the players. I am excited about returning to Wake. I plan to stay at the college level for now but you never know.
What are some of your other passions and interests which get most of your time now post-nba career?
Spending time with my kids and coaching basketball. I do enjoy going to the movies as well!
Any regrets from your time in the NBA? or wish something would've turned out differently?
Not really, but signing a multi-year contract for millions of dollars would have been nice 