Dear Bulls Fan,

Hey Chicago! It's great to be back playing in front of my hometown fans. I'm really enjoying the city's enthusiasm and how it's full of life. I've been away from Chicago for a while but it's such a great feeling to come home and see how the city has grown, especially on the West Side. It has become such a fantastic place. My family loves having me back because they get to see me play pro ball at home every night, just like they did during my days at Rich Central High School.

Growing up in Chicago, I understand how loyal and supportive you are of your sports teams. I'm still a big fan too. My friends and I used to go to a lot of Sox, Cubs and Bears games growing up, so I know the pride and passion you feel for your teams. The fact that our crowds are among the biggest in the NBA shows that Chicago fans are the truest fans in the world. I've been to many cities and arenas where great support isn't commonplace. I remember being at Madison Square Garden and listening to Knick fans boo Patrick Ewing every time he touched the basketball!

I'm the kind of player who takes tremendous pride in being a true professional, both on and off the floor. To me, a professional is someone who cherishes his job and tries to do it to the best of his abilities every day. I take care of my body, put in the work and try to lead by example. (I'm 35 but feel like I did back in my Flyin' Illini days.) For me, being a professional means attention to detail, including simple things like the way a player dresses. If I ever get to be commissioner of the NBA, there is definitely going to be a dress code!

I bet you didn't know that I'm a boxing fanatic. I have every big fight there ever was on video tape. Ali vs. Frazier, Tyson vs. Holyfield... you name it and I have it. I also do mixed martial arts and I love to read, especially books on philosophy. My favorite movies include Gladiator, Mo' Better Blues and Wall Street (I loved Michael Douglas and his role as the infamous Gordon Gekko). My favorite actors are Johnny Depp, Denzel Washington and Selma Hayek. I do keep a strict diet because of my numerous training programs, but a few of my favorite Chicago restaurants to visit when I want to cheat a little are Nino's Pizza and Dublin's Bar and Grill.

Finally, I want you to know that I'm a player who really wants to bring that Championship feeling back to the Chicago Bulls. I grew up here, I'm a Chicago Bull at heart, and I want nothing more than to win for the city of Chicago and most importantly the fans.

With sincere thanks and best wishes,


Kendall Gill