Chat Tanscript: DeShawn Stevenson
In his sixth NBA season, DeShawn Stevenson is off to a career-best year with the Orlando Magic. The former Washington Union High (Fresno, CA) standout and first round draft choice has worked his way into the starting lineup in Orlando where he has not only been asked to help contribute on the offensive end, but has also played a big role in helping Orlando put together one of the league's best defensive units.
On Tuesday, November 22, Stevenson took a break from his standout year for the Magic to chat with fans on NBA.com. Check out what DeShawn had to say about his play so far this year and much more.
Ted Larson/Orlando: Last season and this season seem like night and day for you, what do credit for the turn-around ?
DeShawn Stevenson: Just keeping my head and getting the opportunity to get out there and play. Last year, I didn't really get the chance to show what I can do.
Felipe (Santiago, Chile): What do you think is your weakest part of your game and what are you doing to improve it?
DeShawn Stevenson: I wouldn't say I have a weakness, but there are things I want to add to my game. I need to consistently knock down that 15-foot jumper and I'm working hard on that.
Chris(Rutherford): Deshawn,
Was there a lot of pressure when making your decesion about going straight to the NBA?
DeShawn Stevenson: Yes, family-wise, my mother is very protective of me, so that was the case. But physically and basketball-wise, I didn't really feel that pressure.
Josh Orlando: Hey Deshawn I was Wondering How is the team Dealing with out Grant hill and how do you think his Come Back will effect the team when he does come back do you think you will win more games?
DeShawn Stevenson: The team misses Grant's leadership and consistent scoring. He brings 18, 19, or 20-points a game, every game. He's a big factor on this team..on both ends of the floor and I think we'll be a much-improved team when he gets back on the floor.
Uncle Ron(Chicago): Hey D-Steve,
How's the new little one and how does it feel to finally be counted on to help your team both offensively and defensively?
DeShawn Stevenson: My daughter is beautiful, so bless you for asking. On the court, we had a coaching change this year, and my coach wants me to pick up my scoring, while also taking the assignment of checking one of the opposition's best scorers. So, I'm challenged on both ends of the court and I'm enjoying it.
Mike (Starkville): I was wondering if you gave Dwight Howard any advice last year about making the jump from high school to the NBA? if so, what did you tell him??
DeShawn Stevenson: I just told Dwight to keep his head. It's a long season. Sometimes as a high school guy, you can get too high or too low, so you need to stay even and concentrate on the long haul. Dwight did a great job of that last year and he's doing terrific for us again this season.
Ty: I love the orlando magic. I was just wondering since you are an awsome dunker who is your favorite dunker of all time? Best of luck for the remainder of the season
DeShawn Stevenson: Best dunker of all time? It's a mixture of Jordan and Vince Carter.
John (Herndon,VA): What was your most favorite dunk in all the games you played?
DeShawn Stevenson: My most favorite dunk was my third game in the league when I dunked on Tim Duncan.
Edwin (Puerto Rico): DeShawn who was your favorite player growing up, and why?
DeShawn Stevenson: My favorite player growing up was Michael Jordan. He could do so many things on the court and he was the best player to ever play the game.
Serghei from Holland: HI De-Steve, what do you like most to do in your non-basketball time?
DeShawn Stevenson: Riding jet skis, playing X-Box and playing with my little daughter.
Matt (Merritt Island, Fl): DeShawn, one thing I've noticed is that you have not attempted a 3 pointer yet. You shot 3 pointers well at the end of last season, so I think some people might have expected that trend to continue. I'm loving your game right now, but why no 3 pointers?
DeShawn Stevenson: The game concept is different this year. Turkoglu is starting, so now I'm going to the basket ball while Hedo is shooting more from the outside, even though I did pretty well shooting from three last year. But this concept is working well for us this year, so I think we'll be sticking with it.
Jenn (Orlando): How is your knee doing? Are you going to be okay or be out for awhile? We'll really miss you if you are out! Best of luck!
DeShawn Stevenson: My knee is alright, it's kinda banged up. We play tomorrow and hopefully I'll be fit enough to compete in that game.
Dan(Szeged,Hungary): Yo Shawn! Keep up the good work! My question is: Who is your favourite musician of all time and why? Love supreme,D:)
DeShawn Stevenson: Favorite musician of alltime?....Hmmm.....Tupac.
Joah (San Antonio): What would you say is the toughest thing to learn in the NBA?
DeShawn Stevenson: The NBA concept. It's way different than high school or college ball. Everybody is a professional and you need to find out what your game is at that level, how you can best help win games and be effective against the best players in the world.
DeShawn Stevenson: Thanks to everyone for participating in the chat. We're fighting hard for the Orlando Magic so we can make the playoffs and make a run.
