Nothing is more exciting for a young hoops player than to be selected in the NBA Draft.

ESPN.com and NBA.com chronicled one of the greatest nights in the lives of these talented young men, chatting with them moments after they were chosen in the 2006 NBA Draft.

Read the chat transcript for the No. 8 pick of the draft and new Memphis Grizzlies player, Rudy Gay and see how Gay reacted.


SportsNation Buzzmaster: (9:37 PM ET ) Time to talk to Rudy Gay...

David: Rudy, there was a lot of talk about you going anywhere from 1-10. What do you think about where you ended up?

SportsNation Rudy Gay: (9:40 PM ET ) The competitor in me wanted me to go higher but I'm happy with where I ended up.

k: hey Rudy how do it fell to know your going to be playing with T- Mac

SportsNation Rudy Gay: (9:40 PM ET ) He's one of the players I look up to and I want to see how we complement each other on the floor.

Atlanta Joe: Rudy, how do you feel you can create an instant impact on the court? Do you believe it will be your defense or offense that makes the bigger impact for Houston?

SportsNation Rudy Gay: (9:42 PM ET ) A little of both. My versatility is what will help me at the next level.

dwayne(new jersey): i think you are a talent, What must you improve to be an all-star in the NBA?

SportsNation Rudy Gay: (9:43 PM ET ) My hunger. My versatility will help me a lot, but I need to get more hungry.

Carl (Baby Bulls!): Do you see yourself competing in the Slam Dunk contest in the future?

SportsNation Rudy Gay: (9:44 PM ET ) We'll see about that. To be determined...

dc13(illinois): how big of an impact do you see yourself making in your first year in the NBA?

SportsNation Rudy Gay: (9:45 PM ET ) I see myself having a big impact. I'm a versatile player and I can bring a lot of things to the floor that are important in the NBA game.