There's pressure every night to be the best on the court. I put a lot of pressure on myself. Pressure is part of the game. It is also part of life. I want to prove I can do the work and be a success off the court as well as on it.

I think a lot of the media love the game and hate the people who play it.

I'm a role model. I have overcome the negativity, and I'm playing.

People have always told me, 'Yo, you're too unselfish. Shoot more.'

My grandmother was always upbeat, a naturally happy person. I think I got that from her.

Sometimes I still don't know if I'm prepared to go through the entire season, dealing with the different personalities, the crowds, the politics.

You've got to play with pride and guts.