How did it feel to step on the court as an NBA player for the very first time?

"I was real nervous. I remember that it was a preseason game in Buffalo, N.Y., against the Knicks, and I was with the Cleveland Cavaliers. I remember just being so nervous and continuously looking up at the clock before the game. I was hoping that the Knicks bus would break down so they wouldn't show up. I settled down though after I scored my first basket."

How can you relate this information to your players as motivation regarding their dreams to make the NBA?

"If you're going to get there, it's going to take hard work and confidence. Ninety percent of being in the NBA is confidence. You need to believe you can do what you want to do. If you don't believe in yourself, then no one else will. After scoring my first bucket, my confidence built and I knew I belonged."

What is the best piece of advice that you could offer to aspiring NBA players?

"You have to continue to work hard and improve every day. You need to go after your dreams and not let anyone stand in your way."

What obstacles do NBA Development League players need to overcome to eventually play at the next level?

"D-League players need to continue to work on their jump shots, decision making and patience. They need to figure out why they are not in the NBA yet and then work on those areas. Once they realize why they aren't there yet, they will have a better opportunity to get to the next level."