I got in the game in the second quarter for the first time and then played most of the fourth quarter. I was maybe a little shaky in the beginning because I haven’t really been able to practice. I thought I was decent today. I was trying to learn while I was out there on the court since I haven’t been able to go through the full practices with the rest of the guys. I have to pick up things really quick, which might be why I look a little uncertain at times. Today was only my second run since Tuesday.

We’re still jelling and improving as a team and making progress so that we peak in Athens at the Olympics. Day by day we’re getting closer to where we need to be. The international game is physical, not quite like the NBA, but physical. It’s a little different than the NBA because of the different rules and a different type of game.

I understand I’m the rookie on the team. I’m getting exposed to the best in the NBA and it should make my transition to the NBA that much smoother. Tim Duncan is helping me by giving me tips and helping me understand what’s going on on the court and what he sees while I’m in the game.

We just met the media in the “mixed zone” which is different than how it is in the NBA. Here, there is a hallway where the media wait for us and we talk to them on the way out of the arena after we have showered. In the NBA, media are allowed in the locker room to do interviews after we have a brief “cooling off” period.

From here, we go right to the airport for a long, nine-hour flight to Germany. I’m going to sleep, eat, you name it during that time. Like I said, I’ve never been to Germany so it should be a great experience.

Once we get to Athens, I’m looking forward to meeting the other Olympic athletes. Diana Taurasi and I know each other well from our UConn days, so I’m sure I’ll catch up with her and see some of the women’s games. We’re staying on a boat with our families and not in the Olympic Village, but hopefully it won’t be too difficult to get around over there and we can meet others. That’s what it’s about, getting to interact with people from all over the world. I hope to win a gold medal, but also to enjoy the complete Olympic experience.

Thanks for all your support and I can't wait to see you when I get back. Wish us luck.