Tarik Black's sophomore season saw mixed results, as he averaged 3.4 points and 4.0 rebounds in 12.7 minutes of 39 games. The 24-year-old scored double figures only once, but he did provide energy off the bench and was efficient around the rim, shooting 54.8 percent.
Below is a summary of his exit interview with assembled media on Thursday:
On the young team moving forward:
Black: "We're young in terms of what it takes to be successful in the NBA and how to get there. ... No young person has ever come in this league, like, 'OK, I'm already a champion.'"
On what General Manager Mitch Kupchak and coach Byron Scott want to see out of him:
Black: "One of the big things for them was finding consistency on the floor -- consistent energy and consistent tough play."
On On playing more consistently:
Black: "I believe it's about being comfortable; finding your comfort on the floor. I don't think anybody questions that I play hard. ... Even in bing an energy guy or taking that role, I still need to understand what that means."
On his prospective longterm future with the team:
Black: "They mentioned me with the younger guys. ... If you mention me with them, you're putting me in the category with them."