Meet Kirk Snyder

Kirk Snyder spoke with utahjazz.com shortly after being drafted by Utah in the first round, 16th pick overall in the 2004 NBA Draft.

utahjazz.com: What are your feelings about being selected by the Jazz?

Snyder: It’s great.  They have a tradition of winning and any time you get to be a part of something like it’s special. 

utahjazz.com: What did you think about your workout with the Jazz and did you leave with the feeling you would wind up here?

Snyder: I just worked really hard and left it all on the court.  I guess they were interested and pleased with what they saw and pulled the trigger and picked me.

utahjazz.com: What do you feel like you bring to them and how do you feel you’ll fit in the roster?

Snyder: I play hard.  I think the game and they think the game and play defense really well.  I can play defense; it takes a good IQ for basketball.  They win and it’s going to be fun.

utahjazz.com: How surprised were you Utah took you, considering they were open about going for centers and forwards?

Snyder: They obviously saw something in the way I play the game of basketball.  I don’t want to leave them empty with what they’ve done.  I think they made a great decision because it’s just a matter of playing the game of basketball and I can do that.

utahjazz.com: What are your thoughts on Coach Sloan and how much interaction did you have with him when you were here?

Snyder: I got to see Coach Sloan when he came to Reno, Nevada in a pre-season game against Golden State.  He seems like a nice guy, but when the ball is thrown up he seems like a different person.  That’s honestly what you want to be around because when the ball is thrown up you have to be competitive and want to be the best.  That’s the kind of Coach he is and he coaches that way.

utahjazz.com: Was the workout in Chicago where the Jazz really decided they liked you?

Snyder: From a physical standpoint, I think so.  That probably was a big reason why they picked me.

utahjazz.com: There is a lot of competition in your spot with Giricek, Raja Bell and Kirelinko.  Do you see yourself stepping up and grabbing those right away or is it going to be a process for you?

Snyder: Whatever Coach Sloan feels best and whatever is best for the team.  If it’s best that I wait my turn, play a few minutes or whatever happens, then that’s what I’m supposed to do.  In practice and camp, I’ll do my best to give it all I have everyday.