Q&A with Former Magic Man Danny Schayes

What are you up to these days?
“Well I still live here in town, I do some private investing, and follow the Magic. I like to see what the guys are up to.”

What kind of memories come back to you when you step in the arena?
“Well it was a great place to play. When we played, every night was a sellout and there was just a lot of enthusiasm. The games were really big events, and it’s just great to come back to the arena where has so many special moments.”

When you’re here do you feel like playing again?
“Oh sure. I played a long time. I played 18 years, but I still miss the action. Playing basketball is a great way to make a living, and here in Orlando I have so many good friends - from the ushers in the arena to the people in the front office. There is a lot of loyalty here to the team and to the organization and it's great to see.”

With playing for such a long time, and knowing so much about basketball, have you ever thought about coaching?
“Sure. I’ve worked with a lot of players my entire life, and actually grew up in basketball camp. Yeah, I like coaching players and would love to get the opportunity to coach. The biggest thing for me right now is the two-year old I have at home and he takes up a lot time. He is fun, and that’s keeping me busy right now.”

In your opinion what do the Magic have to do in the off-season?
“From what I have been able to see from this team is they are actually not that far away. They give up way too many easy baskets and they really need to tighten up the defense as a team element. They have to move the ball a little bit, because they rely on Tracy too much. Maybe find some outside shooting to clear up the post game, and I would like to see them run a little more.”

Will your alma mater, Syracuse, defend their national championship?
“They lost such a big part of the team when Carmelo Anthony left, but they are playing good ball right now. Once the tournament starts it is anyone’s game.”

Do you have any fond memories of March Madness?
“When I was there20 years ago it was much different than it is now. The tournament was big, but not the massive event that it is today. We had some good teams at Syracuse, never title contenders, but the tournament was always something I looked forward to.”