I wanted to prove people wrong who didn't think I could play at this level. I also wanted to take care of my family. It was a chance to play against the best players in the world. Mentally and physically I don't think I was ready, but I was ready to take on the challenge.

I want to be in the best winning situation. I don't want to be around anybody who's just interested in playing out the season and then going home for the summer.

If my team isn't motivated, it's my fault. I can't consider myself the best of the best until my team is able to get out of the first round.

I know I'm a good person. I know I can play basketball.

In college you learn about college

If I can go to the U.S. Army and fight the war at 18 why can't you play basketball for 48 minutes?

If we win, I don't care if I get 20 boards or five boards.