I am who I am because of the people who I grew up with and where I'm from.

Competition is great for everyone. Sports can teach you so much at an early age, including camaraderie and sportsmanship. Competition aspect is something I've always been big on - I always wanted to compete in something. It was swimming for many years, then I moved on to basketball. I had to find a way to channel my competitive energy, so I'm lucky that basketball worked out for me.

I like R&B. I listen to music, not singers.

Get your education. The number of guys who are blessed to be in the league is so small compared to the number of high school players [who want to play in the league]. But one thing you can do is get your college education. If you are blessed enough to get a scholarship to play college basketball, make sure you get your college degree, too, then move on from there.

The time when there is no one there to feel sorry for you or to cheer for you is when a player is made.

The only nickname I've ever had is Merlin, like the magician. I don't know why.

I would have loved to play against Bill Russell. He was such a force.