By Scott Lauer
Scott Lauer is the radio play-by-play voice of the Charlotte Hornets. His column will appear on hornets.com on Thursdays throughout the season. The opinions expressed here are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Hornets organization.
It’s not just an ordinary morning at Banker’s Life Field House as the Hornets and Pacers prepare for their evening matchup on this cold and windy day in Indianapolis. It’s game 12 of the season for both of these injury-ravaged 4-7 teams, but there is great attention directed toward the Hornets locker room; great meaning about 20 reporters in this rather small NBA market, including one from ESPN. It has nothing to do with Indiana native Cody Zeller being in his home state, nor is it because Noah Vonleh is back in the state where he also played ball. It’s all about Lance Stephenson; his first game back in this building since he played four years as a Pacer, before opting not to sign a five-year offer from the Pacers this summer, instead taking a shorter deal to be with the Hornets. Stephenson is averaging 10 points, nine rebound, and five assists. Here’s a sample of part of the Question & Answer session with the media, prior to this morning’s shoot around…
Q: Is it just another game?
A: It’s like a homecoming; it’s just another game. I’m going to try to get a win.
Q: Do relationships stay the same with people here?
A: Oh yeah. I love the Pacers; this is where I grew up and learned the game. There are no hard feelings.
Q: What are you expecting?
A: I don’t know. I’m sure going to play and have fun.
Q: Is this weird for you?
A: Yes, I’ve never seen the visiting locker room. Playing against my former teammates and friends, it’s going to be different.
Q: What did you do last night?
A: Actually I just went out to eat, and went to the Duke / Michigan State game. I saw Paul George at the game and we got to talking about old times.
Q: Do you think you’ll be nervous tonight?
A: Before every game I’m nervous. When you get on the floor, you’re always nervous, and if you’re not, then you’re not a ball player. Once I go up and down the floor twice, I’m okay.
Q: Will it hurt if you get booed?
A: Definitely, it’ll hurt if I get booed, but I’m on the other team so if I get booed I won’t be upset. I know how the fans embraced me here and they loved me here, but I’ll be disappointed (if they boo)….he chuckled.
Q: How would you describe the start to this season?
A: It’s tough learning the new system, defensive scheme, new teammates. I’ve got guys helping with the offense.
Q: How are you fitting in with the Charlotte?
A: I think I’m playing under the level that I played last year, but it’s real early. I’m learning the offense, defense, and teammates. I’m getting adjusted.
Q: Is there anything that you want to say to the Pacers fans?
A: I learned the NBA game here, so the fans played a big part. I wore the yellow shoes. I dressed up as Sir Lancelot. I just want to say thank you, and they helped me play hard.