Q: What have you been doing in the offseason?

A: Mostly recharging and getting started on work for next season. We’ve been scouting the summer leagues looking for potential draft picks for next year and trying to place our players in various leagues and camps throughout the summer. We’ve started planning for next season such as preparing for training camps in October and setting up a practice schedule for next season. I, personally, have been helping out with different basketball camps around the area.

Doug Marty Led the Lowgators to the Playoffs Last Season

Q: How did you enjoy last season?

A: I thought we had a very successful season overall. The guys worked really hard developing their skills, and we even had three players move up to the NBA. We were pleased to make it to the playoffs to end the season on a positive note.

Q: What did you learn about yourself as a head coach?

A: I learned how important preparation can be. “Preparation is the key for making a long season successful.” You have to focus on developing your players and building synergy amongst the team. But preparation is the key element to it all.

Q: It’s exciting to see Sam Vincent (Mobile Revelers coach, who brought home an NBDL Championship) was interviewed for the Raptors coaching job. How likely is it that coaches get called up? Is it likely he will get it?

A: I hope Sam gets the job. He’s deserving of it. He is a fine and dedicated coach. We’ve seen other coaches get called up from the NBDL and Sam definitely has a chance. However, it’s more likely that players get called up because it’s more of a long-term commitment for coaches.

Q: The NBA Finals begin tonight. Who do you think will win? The Nets or the Spurs?

A: The Spurs will win. They have more size and depth.

Q: If you could build your own team, would you rather have Tim Duncan or Shaq?

A: This is a tough one. I love Tim Duncan. He was the best player in the league this year because he is so fundamental. However, I couldn’t pass on Shaq because he is so much more dominant.

Q: What do you think about all the NBA draft hype of LeBron James’ talent and his multi-million dollar Nike contract? How good do you really think he is?

A: I don’t know if he is as good as they say he is. He is, however, talented both emotionally and physically. He will do well in the NBA. But how well will depend on if he keeps improving. The really good players continue to improve their skill. I am sure that he will bring sold out crowds to Cleveland games both home and away.

Q: Speaking of young players, you are going to be involved with the Anthony Johnson/Lowgators Summer Camp later this month. During the off-season, what types of exercises or drills do you recommend for kids to work on to prepare for the regular season?

A: One word: fundamentals. Lots of players can run, jump, and shoot, but you can’t neglect the fundamentals. Working on the basics in the off-season, such as dribbling, passing, ball handling, shooting, and defense, can help you become a better player.