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"When I had this opportunity (to throw out the first pitch), it made me appreciate even more what the Dodgers have meant in my life."
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On Monday, August 4th, Clippers.com sat down with Clippers guard Baron Davis to discuss his expectations for the upcoming season, his basketball camp "Rising Stars of America," throwing out the first pitch at Dodgers Stadium, Don't Mess With the Zohan and more. To have a question considered for a future Q & A, click here to submit your question online now.
posted by Clippers.com | August 4 @ 2:08 pm The Clippers have made a lot of moves since bringing you to Los Angeles. Can you comment on the additions of Marcus Camby, Jason Hart and Ricky Davis?
What do you see as the biggest challenge heading into the season and how do you intend on attacking that challenge?
How did your camp Rising Stars of America come to life?
Rising Stars of America came to life because I wanted to build something for kids to be associated with that helped them feel special and achieve success. I think sports and education are great platforms for kids to reach their goals, and RSOA embodies that model to help kids unlock their potential.
Your campers get to learn the fundamentals of basketball from somebody they consider a role model. Have any of the campers ever taught you anything?
I always learn from my campers. Kids see the game from a different perspective, and they have a natural appreciation for the game as well. And they're always honest!
What was it like to throw out the first pitch at the Dodgers game last Wednesday?
Throwing out the first pitch at the Dodger game was a dream come true for me. I remember my grandfather, Papa Luke, was the biggest Dodgers fan in the world. He would sit in his chair and watch every game, and we were never allowed to change the channel, even if he fell asleep! So now when I had this opportunity, it made me appreciate even more what the Dodgers have meant in my life.
How did you get involved with Adam Sandler to create the Don't Mess With the Zohan's version of the NBA's "There can only be one" commercial?
I have always been a huge fan of Adam Sandler's, and I was lucky enough to be picked to be a part of the commercial. Being on set with him was great... so much fun and we definitely had some good laughs.
You mentioned that you used to sneak into the Sports Arena as a kid to watch NBA games. What player did you most enjoy watching and did you ever get caught?
I have great memories of watching players like Benoit Benjamin and Ron Harper. I can't say I ever got 'caught,' sneaking into the arena, but I got questioned a few times when I would sneak down to
the seats that were closer to the floor...good thing I was always able to talk my way out of it.
Aside from the great home cooking, what are you most looking forward to being back in LA?
I'm excited to be back home and continue to do my part to make an impact in the community. There are a lot of kids that look up to me that I have a connection with, and I want to be a positive influence in their lives to help them graduate high school and then college and achieve their dreams along the way.
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