James Singleton Chat Transcript
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Singleton has been electrifying for the 2005-06 Clippers.NBAE/Getty Images |
Singleton chatted live with fans during the morning of Wednesday, November 9th. Check out the complete chat transcript below:
Dave (Goleta CA): What's been the hardest adjustment to make so far this season? And what has been your favorite moment thus far? Keep on attacking the glass!
James Singleton: My hardest adjustment has been learning how to get around in California, on the interstate and everything. The favorite moment would be the first game and the home opener. Just accomplishing my goal of being on an NBA team and competing in the league.
James (Phoenix): hey james. how does it feel like being a no-name rookie and then out of nowhere becoming one of the top scorers for rookies?
James Singleton: It feels great. I love to be unknown!
Chris/Mac (Indianapolis): How has playing in Italy prepared you for the NBA, and do you feel more prepared as a professional?
James Singleton: It taught me patience. I did develop my fundamentals and got added understanding of myself and my game and what I need to do to succeed on the court.
Norman (Long Beach): What would you say are the biggest differences from playing in Europe to playing United States? How do you like being in the NBA?
James Singleton: More athletes in the NBA. The rules are different too. I think I can play better in the NBA than overseas. Playing with and against better athletes and under the NBA rules, benefits my game.
Eric Fonseca (Alhambra): How do you prepare for a game? Do you watch video on the player you are going to guard to become familiar with the player's tendencies?
James Singleton: I watch a lot of film. And then I prepare myself mentally. It also helps that I'm not starting, so I can get a look at the player while I'm not in the game, and I can get an understanding of what he is trying to do, and what I need to do to combat that.
Redondo Beach: James--do you hope to be a starter at some point this season or do you feel you're at a greater advantage coming off the bench?
James Singleton: Everyone hopes to be a starter, but as I said in the previous question, I think I can gain an advantage coming off the bench. I like being able to set a new tone on the game when I come off the bench.
MIchael D (La Puente): Does the fact that you werent drafted and had to prove yourself somewhere else drive you to play as hard as you do now or was that always in your game?
James Singleton: (Laughs) It helps more! The fact I didn't get any attention and that a lot of people didn't think I could be the player I am today. I love the fact that I wasn't drafted and now I am still able to compete in the league today. That is my motivation.
Darryl (Birmingham, AL): After the game with the Hawks when you posterised Josh Smith and some other guy in traffic what did that feel like?
James Singleton: Normal feeling. A lot of people say, "Welcome to the NBA" but I have a job to do. Just because I wasn't drafted doesn't mean I don't belong here. I enjoy proving that to people.
Matty Neikrug (Los Angeles): Who has been the most influential person in your career?
James Singleton: It has to be everyone who has taken the time to actually show me things that I didn't know. I learn from almost everyone, so I can't just single out one person. I really appreciate everyone who has helped me along.
Kyle (Oakland): You've surprised lots of people with your play so far this season. When Corey Maggette comes back, what kind of role do you think you'll have and do you think you will see more significant playing time as the season progresses?
James Singleton: When Maggette comes back, my minutes may increase or decrease. I can't tell that. One thing I can control is that no matter how many minutes I get, I will still be giving the same, total effort I'm giving now. I am only concerned about the success of the team, not my minutes. Any minutes I get, I will work as hard as I can to help my team win games.
Ryan (Los Angeles): Hi James! Who has the biggest hops in the team? I hear you are a great leaper, but who is the best dunker on the team?
James Singleton: I jump the highest, out of everyone. But the most powerful dunker is probably [Chris] Wilcox. He can get so high and throw it down so fast. Sometimes I just watch. If we had a dunk contest it would be between Wilcox, Maggette and me.
Brad (Gadsden, AL): James, When you was a kid who was your favorite team and player?
James Singleton: My favorite team as the Bulls, as I grew up in Chicago. My favorite players were Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman and Tracy McGrady.
Nate (Salt Lake City): Do you have any pre-game rituals to help get you psyched up for a game? If so, where did those rituals or patterns of preparation originate from?
James Singleton: I just listen to my music. And sometimes I will go over the film again to get the plays down pat. Other than that, I just relax.
Daniel (San Clemente): Do you think you guys are going to be better than the Lakers?
James Singleton: Without a doubt! Without a doubt! Even though I'm just a rookie, I will do everything I can to make us the team in Los Angeles.
James Singleton: Thanks to everyone for chatting with me today, I really enjoyed it and I hope I can do it again in the future. Thanks for all your support and keep following the Clippers. We're gonna work hard to do whatever we can to win!
