At the end of 2003, my game was complete. Shooting, defense, using the dribble, transition, midrange stuff was all there. Then it was about fine-tuning and trying to improve in each area.

My role is to make sure we're moving in the right direction, getting points, rebounds, steals, assists and providing leadership.

I'm playing against great players, playing against the best in the world. The competition-that's what I've always wanted.

I was just letting the shots fly. You know, I don't leave any bullets in the chamber.

I can't relate to lazy people. We don't speak the same language. I don't understand you. I don't want to understand you.

I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. No matter what the injury - unless it's completely debilitating - I'm going to be the same player I've always been. I'll figure it out. I'll make some tweaks, some changes, but I'm still coming.

The topic of leadership is a touchy one. A lot of leaders fail because they don't have the bravery to touch that nerve or strike that chord. Throughout my years, I haven't had that fear.