Al Thornton - Draft Workout Interview

Celtics.com
June 7, 2007

Al Thornton met with the media after his draft workout on Thursday. Here's a partial transcript of his interview.

How did it go today?

"I think I did pretty well. I didn't shoot the ball as well as I wanted to but overall I think I did OK."

What do you think you bring to the pros? What is the highlight of your game?

"I'm a high energy player who plays hard every possession."

You really improved every year from your freshman year to your senior year. What was the key to your improvement?

" I think the key was just wanting to get better each and every year. We had a great coaching staff that pushes us, and drives us to add something to our game every year."

Is this your first workout?

"I worked out for Sacramento...

So you worked out with Corey?

"Corey, that's my guy. When we step out on the court we're just trying to compete and have fun...even though he's a Florida guy."

Has anything about the process surprised you so far?

"Not really. I have coaches who have coached in the NBA, they've been letting me know pretty much everything that's going to go on."

How has going to four years of college prepared you for the NBA?

"I think so, I think playing in the ACC for four years, it's been good."

Are there teams that you see that fit your style of play?

"I'd say a team that fits my style would be Phoenix. But I know there's no way I'll get picked up by them."

Can you see yourself fitting in here with the Celtics?

"Sure, I can."

Do you like playing against the same guy, workout after workout?

"I know Corey is not going to back down, he's going to bring it and I know its going to be fun and very competitive."

You're known as an offensive guy and he's known as a defender. Is that a nice matchup?

"Yeah, it is."

What's your scouting report on Brewer from a defensive standpoint?

"Great defender...quick and long, so you've got to attack him, get into his body. He's just a heady defender."

- Compiled by Peter Stringer