MEDIA DAY CHAT(09/25/2009) 
10:34 Pacers.com:  Media Day is about to begin. Submit your questions now.
10:42 Pacers.com:  As we wait for the players to stop by, feel free to submit your thoughts on this year's team.
10:43 [Comment From Cin]
Looking forward to a fun year with everybody pushing each other only making everyone better.
10:45 [Comment From Steven B]
I feel like this is finally the year we get out of our playoff slump... we have a young team that wants to win with a new emphasis on defense which is exactly what you want out of a team!
10:46 [Comment From Mike M]
Playoff bound baby
10:49 [Comment From Mike]
Tyler will be a big role player this year.
10:49 [Comment From Ahmad]
stay healthy and play hard will get us in playoff! go pacers!
10:58 Pacers.com:  

Greetings all, Bruno checking in here. Just got out of the press conferences with Jim O'Brien and Danny Granger. JOB reinforced that all playing time is on the table and will be determined by who plays the best defense.

10:59 Pacers.com:  If you like to read between the lines, as I do, that might tend to indicated a strong chance for Dahntay Jones to start at shooting guard. JOB also said Tyler Hansbrough will not be ready to practice for the start of camp and might not be ready until the start of the regular season. Will endeavor to find more details on that today.
11:00 Pacers.com:  

Danny said he worked on fundamental aspects of his game. He's improved so much each year so far, I asked how much more room for improvement he had and how it might manifest itself. He said this: "In wins."

11:00 Pacers.com:  OK, thanks for the opportunity to break in. Got to head to the court with the camera and notepad to find out what I can. Will check in later. Enjoy chatting with the players.
11:02 [Comment From nate s.]
hey now that we are an underdog team i expect nothing less than a great season. because when we are rated high it seems we do bad and when little is expected we prove everyone wrong so good luck stay healthy and prove everyone wrong
11:12 Pacers.com:  

Plenty of action taking place on the Practice Court for Media Day. Players are stopping by each media station and will be to the live chat shortly.

11:14
11:14 [Comment From JayRad]
What are somethings you enjoy off the court?
11:15 Dahntay Jones:  I enjoy going to movies, bowling and golfing.
11:15 [Comment From Jeff]
What is one thing that fans can expect from this team this year.
11:16 Dahntay Jones:  You can expect us to compete on a nightly basis; a commitment to defense. With the intentions of making a big playoff run.
11:16 [Comment From Brandon]
who is your favorite player to guard?
11:16 Dahntay Jones:  You would have to say Kobe. He's the best that we have in our game right now and it's always a challenge.
11:17 [Comment From Sam]
I know you can straight up play D, but how do you see yourself contributing on O-Fence? big time scorer, scoring on scrappy plays only, or somewhere in between?
11:18 Dahntay Jones:  Somewhere in between. I plan to get out on the break, score in transition. We play an up-tempo type of game; we don't run many sets -- we'll just try to get out and score early buckets.
11:19 [Comment From Jade]
What attracted you to Indy?
11:19 Dahntay Jones:  

The roster of players and the scorers that we have along with Larry Bird and Coach OBrien's commitment to defense and change the culture around.

11:20 Pacers.com:  

Dahntay has left and we now have Lawrence Roberts. Submit your questions for him.

11:20 [Comment From Matt]
What could you bring to the pacers?
11:21 Lawrence Roberts:  

I'm a hard nose defender and a team player, a person that plays hard.

11:21 [Comment From jackson]
What is your favorite part of the nba season?
11:22 Lawrence Roberts:  I want to say after the all-star break when teams are making a push towards the playoffs. Teams start to take it to the next level.
11:22 [Comment From Mike]
What do you like to do off the court?
11:23 Lawrence Roberts:  Video games, of course. That pretty much occupies all of my off-time. I'm an X-Box guy and I like playing Madden.
11:23 [Comment From Mike]
How long is your workout days in the off-season?
11:24 Lawrence Roberts:  As far as the hours -- twice a day, maybe take a Saturday/Sunday off. The more you train, the easier it is in the season. Plus, I love to play basketball, so it's easy.
11:25 Lawrence Roberts:  Demetris Nichols has joined us.
11:26 [Comment From Justin]
What style of game do you have?
11:27 Demetris Nichols:  I'm hard-working, I play defense and shoot the ball pretty well -- and just being a good team-mate.
11:27 [Comment From Steven B]
What can you bring to the table for the pacers this season? What is your most distinguishable characteristic on the court?
11:28 Demetris Nichols:  Coach said they're really trying to stress defense this year. At first, I'll just try to bring a defensive presence. And if I get the chance to shoot the ball, I'm a pretty good shooter. I'm just here to make the team better.
11:28 [Comment From Jade]
Have you played in an up-tempo game like the pacers play?
11:29 Demetris Nichols:  Yeah, I think my style of play fits this team well. It's all about playing defense and running and shooting the ball.
11:29 [Comment From Mike L.]
Do you workout with other NBA players?
11:30 Demetris Nichols:  

Yeah, I've worked out with a couple guys including Ben Gordon, Nate Robinson, Wilson Chandler.

11:30 Pacers.com:  Rod Benson should be joining us shortly.
11:31 Pacers.com:  He just got bumped by Travis Diener. Ask Travis your questions now.
11:31
11:32 [Comment From Nick]
hi , my name is nick. I was wanting to ask Travis Diener if he thinks he will have a bigger role in this year's back court game
11:33 Travis:  I don't know. I guess we'll just have to wait until Training Camp and practice, and well see how it goes. Hopefully my role is bigger and we can win some games and get the fans excited.
11:33 [Comment From Mike M]
Hey Travis what have you been doing this offseason to improve your game?
11:34 Travis:  Continuing to get in the weight room and gym and improve on all the things that have gotten me to this level. Continue to work hard on and off the court.
11:34 [Comment From Stacy]
Is your last name pronounced like ee or aye? I've heard it both ways and now I'm wondering if I've been pronouncing it wrong.
11:34 Travis:  EE.
11:35 [Comment From Bri]
You are hottest player in the NBA!!
11:35 Travis:  Well thank you.
11:35 [Comment From Rex]
Who's your favorite guy to pull stunts on? I know you are afraid of Jeff.. hehe
11:36 Travis:  I love to play jokes on the rooks, because they're still young and can't do anything back. And I'm not afraid of Jeff, either.
11:36 [Comment From Rex]
Travis, have you talked to coach Crene this summera?
11:37 Travis:  Yeah, I talk to him once every couple weeks and I've seen him once this summer.
11:37 [Comment From jackson]
Travis what will you do when you bball career comes to a close?
11:37 Travis:  I'll probably try to get into coaching. Probably at the high school or college level.
11:38 [Comment From Bill]
will you be blogging more?
11:38 Travis:  I don't know. I think Josh and Mike and Murph have taken over that for the team.
11:38 Travis:  Thanks and keep supporting us.
11:39 Pacers.com:  Danny Granger has joined us.
11:39
11:40 [Comment From Pierre]
Being considered the franchise guy for the Pacer now, how do you 1) Keep your composure, as well as set an example for the team when close games are lost, or hings aren't going well. 2) Keep yourself grounded amongst all the praise, as well as pressure for you to repeat or grow upon your all-star season last year?
11:41 Danny:  I think that I have always had a pretty level head, so that helps me keep my composure in tough situations and when things aren't going well. I keep grounded since we haven't had the most team success and I'm measured by the team success.
11:41 [Comment From Kyle]
What major improvement in your game do you think fans will notice the most?
11:42 Danny:  My ability to create more for my teammates and the win column. My assist-turnover ratio will be better and also my rebounding.
11:42 [Comment From Sam]
what do you think about being part of the USA team
11:42 Danny:  It's a great accomplishment and honor to be chosen to represent the USA and the Olympics are a once in a lifetime opportunity.
11:43 [Comment From Quinn]
I thought I heard there was a potential snag in your batcave entrance project. How's that going?
11:44 Danny:  We're working ways around it to try to figure out how we can accomplish what I want. Whatever the outcome, it will be very cool to see. Look for it on MTV Cribs when it comes out.
11:44 [Comment From jackson]
The team's chemistry is something everyone talked about positively last season, with the new players and a real emphasis on defense do you see the chemistry continuing to improve and the team becoming close again?
11:45 Danny:  Yes, alot of us already know eachother. I think we have a lot of veterans that have played alot of minutes on good teams which will help team chemistry.
11:45 [Comment From Nick (Dallas, TX)]
Is defense a skill or is it effort?
11:46 Danny:  I think it's a learned skill that comes with experience and it definitely 70-80% effort.
11:46 Danny:  Thank you for all your support and we're going to give you guys a great season.
11:46 Pacers.com:  Rod Benson has joined us.
11:47 [Comment From Jake]
What is your basketball style like?
11:48 Rod Benson:  I would say I am more of a finesse player. My strengths are rebounding and shot-blocking.
11:48 [Comment From Jeff]
How does the NBA differ from the Euro play?
11:49 Rod Benson:  The NBA, the floor is alot more spread. So the offense has a big advantage. In Euro play, it's more physical than college and there's help-side defense, so the emphasis is more on jump-shooting.
11:49 [Comment From Quinn]
Who on the team do you feel you'll gravitate to for advice and tips?
11:50 Rod Benson:  This is a young team, that is different than other that I've been associated with. I'm sure everyone will get advice from eachother throughout camp and that will be a new experience for me.
11:50 [Comment From Speed]
Rod Benson: Any restrictions by the Organization on what you are permitted to say on your blog?
11:51 Rod Benson:  I've actually decided to not blog about my time here until after the pre-season, so I can focus on my on-the-court stuff and not the off-the-court pressure. Look for my past blogs on yahoosports.com.
11:52 [Comment From Speed]
Rod Benson-With 15 guaranteed contract in camp, what do you feel your chances are to make the roster?
11:53 Rod Benson:  When it comes to roster spots, I've seen alot of crazy things happen -- crazier for what needs to happen here for me to make a team. I would say its a great opportunity for me regardless because any time you can associated yourself with the NBA it's a good deal.
11:53 Pacers.com:  Luther Head has joined us.
11:53
11:54 [Comment From Lee]
what do you enjoy off the court?
11:54 Luther Head:  I'm a movie guy. Relaxing, staying off my feet and getting ready for the next day of basketball.
11:55 [Comment From Speed]
Luther-Welcome back to the Midwest! What do you consider your best NBA position?
11:56 Luther Head:  

People have seen me play the point alot and I love playing it. I also still enjoy the 2-spot because I enjoy shooting the ball and I always will.

11:56 [Comment From Sam]
u played wit yao ming tracey magrady ron artest and prt of the season wit rafer alston are you glad that your a teammate of tj ford danny granger tyler hansbrough earl watson and the rest of them even though their not like yoa ming or tracey or on?
11:57 Luther Head:  Playing with those guys was great, but playing with a guy like Yao Ming has a focus on him alot. I enjoy the more fast-paced style of play that Pacers have.
11:57 [Comment From Speed]
Have you fully recovered from the ankle and hand injuries last year and have you done any specific training to avoid injuries?
11:58 Luther Head:  I've been working all summer on injury-prevention and it's coming along great. I wouldn't say I"m 100% now, but each day I feel better and by the start of the season, I hope to be at 100%.
11:58 [Comment From Quinn]
What's a part of your game that most people tend to underrate?
11:59 Luther Head:  Defense. I feel like I'm decent defender, I can be at alot of places at one time on the court. And I think that's definately the most under-rated part of my game.
11:59 [Comment From will]
who do you work out with? Any other NBA players?
12:00 Luther Head:  This summer I worked out with alot of players including Will Bynum, Dwyane Wade, T-Mac, Bonzi Wells, Ramon Felton and Devin Harris in Chicago.
12:01 Luther Head:  Thanks for the motivation and believing in me. I'm going to try my hardest to do everything that is asked of me.
12:01 Pacers.com:  Earl Watson is now here.
12:01
12:02 [Comment From harry]
do you like Indy so far?
12:03 Earl Watson:  Yeah, Indy has been a great experience for me so far. It's been overcast and rainy everyday, but other than that, it's been great working out with my teammates.
12:03 [Comment From SteveMosley]
What up Earl!?! How excited are you to be with a young team that is moving towards a playoff berth?
12:04 Earl Watson:  It's really exciting having the opportunity to compete for the playoffs and win in the playoffs. It provides motivation to go beyond the things that you normally do.
12:04 [Comment From Lee]
What would you say was the main selling point that made you decide to sign with the Pacers and where do each of you see yourselves fitting into the coach\'s overall game plan as the team attempts to become more competitive in the push to make it back to the post-season?
12:05 Earl Watson:  The fact they were only a couple games out of the playoffs, helped me choose Indiana. With the additions and their style of play, I like the direction the team is going.
12:05 [Comment From Quinn]
Of all the games you've played in, which one stands out the most?
12:06 Earl Watson:  I would say playing for UCLA in the NCAA tournament against Maryland my junior year. It was a great game for my team and a chance to have my whole family there was special to me. It was a big win for our University.
12:06 [Comment From Speed]
Do you see yourself as a Pure Point Guard or a hybrid 1/2?
12:07 Earl Watson:  I don't know, it changes. Whatever position I have to play. I played alot of 2 with Gary Payton my rookie year. Under Hubie Brown at Memphis, I played strictly 1. I have to adjust based on the team's strategy.
12:08 [Comment From Steven B]
With the addition of so many point guards to this team this year, what can you do to ensure your name is mentioned at the top of that list?
12:08 Earl Watson:  Just play hard. Everyone is in competition with themselves to be the best player they can be.
12:09 Earl Watson:  Thanks alot for your time and we look forward to seeing you at the games.
12:09 Pacers.com:  Brandon Rush is joining us now.
12:09
12:09 [Comment From thomas]
Last season, this team showed that they have a few guys who are willing and able to take a big shot with the game on the line. Both Danny and TJ in particular showed that clutchness that we have been missing since Reggie left. Do you see yourself as a guy who is willing and able to take those big shots, or more as a guy who likes to help set them up?
12:11 Brandon:  I would like to be able to take those big shots as well. I understand with Danny and TJ being the biggest playmakers on the team, that they may get those shots. If the opportunity comes around, I would be willing to take those shots.
12:11 [Comment From Brandon]
I seen your training you did in Kansas city with the dribbling drills. Do you think that will translate to your isolation situations for one-on-one during a game?
12:12 Brandon:  Yeah, I think so. Me playing one on one with Danny will help me and I'll be able to be more aggressive because of the work I've been doing this year.
12:12 [Comment From Stacy]
What did you learn the most in your rookie season?
12:13 Brandon:  You have up and downs. Everything doesn't go particularly well, but hardwork outside of practice really help me towards the end of the year when I started to play really well.
12:13 [Comment From Mike L.]
what advice do you plan on giving Tyler and other rookies this year? good luck this season.
12:14 Brandon:  It's a long season, don't get down on yourself. You're going to have your struggles, keep on working hard during and after practice and you'll come a long way in this league.
12:14 [Comment From Jade B.]
Does it matter if you start or come off the bench?
12:14 Brandon:  No, I don't think it matters. I didn't start last year and I still played pretty well. It doesn't matter to me if I come off the bench.
12:15 [Comment From SteveMosley]
I see the combination of yourself and Dahntay providing us with a great defensive combination at the SG and SF spots. Do you envision the 2 of you being on the court at the same time much this season?
12:16 Brandon:  Yeah, I really think we will be able to play together because some teams are really small in this league, moving Danny to the 4. That would allow Dahntay and I to play the 2 and 3 together.
12:16 [Comment From Mike L.]
what rookie 'hazing' did you enjoy & hate most?
12:17 Brandon:  The one I hated the most was getting everyone mcdonalds and donuts before every practice and game. They did do something to my car -- they put feces in my car. It smelled horrible.
12:18 Brandon:  Get ready for the season it's going to be great.
12:18 Pacers.com:  Josh McRoberts has joined us.
12:18
12:19 [Comment From Shane]
Josh, what do you see as your role on this team this season?
12:20 Josh McRoberts:  I think my role will still be to provide energy off the bench -- and just try to add whatever we're missing whether it's defensively or offensively.
12:20 [Comment From Steven B]
I watched some of the videos of summer league and you looked like an absolute beast on the court, especially with some of your dunks. Can we expect similar play from you on the court this season?
12:21 Josh McRoberts:  That's what try to do every game. I think just the way I play, I'm going to be around the rim alot and get as many dunks as I can.
12:21 [Comment From Speed]
With adding muscle do feel like you lost any athleticism or quickness?
12:22 Josh McRoberts:  No, I don't feel like. The strength has even helped me.
12:22 [Comment From SteveMosley]
MCBOB!! Can we expect to see the McBeard come time for the season to start? I really think it adds an intimidation factor, ala Chuck Norris' beard.
12:23 Josh McRoberts:  The beard will make an appearance around Christmas time. I'll mainly do it to keep it interesting around the lockerroom.
12:24 [Comment From JeffClark]
Hey Josh! You bring such a high energy level to the game and I look forward to seeing more of you this year. My question is, how has being around a player like Jeff Foster helped you at the NBA level?
12:25 Josh McRoberts:  I try to learn as much as I can from all the veteran guys, whether it be Jeff or Troy. Just seeing how much energy Jeff brings after 10-11 years, he still brings the same energy as his rookie year.
12:25 [Comment From Jenn]
Hey Josh! How do you get psyched up for a game?
12:26 Josh McRoberts:  I always try to stay even-keel because I can stay focused better if I"m not too hyped. I feel like I can always bring good energy once I get in the game so I don't need to get too crazy before the game starts.
12:26 Josh McRoberts:  Thanks and appreciate all the support.
12:27 Pacers.com:  AJ Price is joining us.
12:27
12:28 [Comment From Bakari]
How do you think you will be able to fit into the Pacers rotation at guard? Do you think you will be able to compete at an high level although it is your rookie year?
12:29 A.J. Price:  Yeah, I just want to go out there and work as hard as possible. SHow the coaching staff what I can bring to the team and hopefully work my way into the rotation.
12:29 [Comment From Speed]
AJ Nice work in the summer league, you seemed more comfortable every game. What do you think you have to improve on to carve out a niche on this team?
12:30 A.J. Price:  I really did get more comfortable with each game. I had to learn the plays. I have to improve my defensive skills on this team. That's what it takes to keep me on the floor under Coach O'Brien.
12:30 [Comment From Jade]
How has your experience in indy been so far?
12:30 A.J. Price:  It's been cool. It's much different than New York, but all in all it's a very nice city.
12:30 [Comment From Steven B]
What number are you going to wear next season?
12:31 A.J. Price:  22 --- Travis Diener has my 12.
12:31 [Comment From Quinn]
Hey AJ, what are your expectations for yourself this season?
12:32 A.J. Price:  Earn playing time, somehow get myself into the rotation, show everyone who passed on me in the draft that I belong here.
12:32 A.J. Price:  Thank you, I really appreciate all the support from all the fans and I look forward to playing in front of the great fans of Indy
12:32 Pacers.com:  Jeff Foster has joined us.
12:33
12:33 [Comment From croxia]
I think this season our team require you to be a leader as a franchiser. please tell me how to do something for both newcomers and young players. I am look forward to seeing you will be a mentor for young guys.
12:34 Jeff Foster:  I just try to lead by example for the young guys and I'll answer any questions they have. They know they can always come to me for advice.
12:35 [Comment From Speed]
Other than the nose, how is the shoulder and back; any physical issue going into camp?
12:35 Jeff Foster:  The only new thing will be the fact that I get to wear the mask for the next month. Other than that, I am ready to go.
12:35 [Comment From SteveMosley]
Jeff, the mustaches seemed to bring a show of solidarity and closeness to the team last season. Can we expect something similar this year? Bald heads for the playoffs maybe? Pacers circa 98
12:36 Jeff Foster:  

If we make it to the playoffs, we'll come up with something creative, but it won't be bald head.

12:36 [Comment From Jade]
Do you want to work with the pacers in some way once your playing career is over?
12:37 Jeff Foster:  

When I'm done playing, I would love to stay in the franchise in some aspect.

12:37 [Comment From Jr.]
You and roy seem to have a good relationship. would you say he is ur "little bro" on the team?
12:37 Jeff Foster:  I don't know about little, but he and I do have a close relationship and I hope he has all the success that he has worked for.
12:37 [Comment From Steven B]
What do you think about the emphasis on defense and hustle plays basically setting the standard for starting jobs? Do we see a bigger increase in your role as this is your style of play?
12:38 Jeff Foster:  For us to be a successful team this year, everybody is going to have to buy in to defense.
12:38 Jeff Foster:  Thanks, looking forward to a great season.
12:39 Pacers.com:  Troy Murphy is now here.
12:39
12:40 [Comment From Jr.]
have you been working out with any pacers/nba players this offseason?
12:40 Troy Murphy:  I worked out with Al Harrington, Joakim Noah, Marko Jaric.
12:41 [Comment From Steven B]
Last season you were a force to be reckoned with when it came to shooting the ball and your rebounding was outstanding as well. What have you done this offseason to improve in these areas and can we expect to see you breaking more records this season?
12:42 Troy Murphy:  I've really worked on my conditioning this off-season and my diet. I've tried to come into camp in great shape.
12:42 [Comment From Brad S]
Hey Troy do u prefer playing under the basket or out in the 3 point area??
12:43 Troy Murphy:  It really doesn't matter to me. In our offense, my job is to space the floor. It doesn't make a difference to me.
12:43 [Comment From Jade]
Do you think this is finally the year you get into the playoffs?
12:43 Troy Murphy:  Yeah, I think so. You have to optimistic. Because if you think you can or you think you can't, you're usually right.
12:43 [Comment From Stacy]
What are your goals for this season?
12:44 Troy Murphy:  To be present everyday. To stay in the moment and to be consistent.
12:44 [Comment From Connie]
Love the blog. Given your love of flying are you excited about the trip abroad
12:44 Troy Murphy:  

It's going to be a tough one. I'm not looking forward to the flight.

12:45 [Comment From Speed]
Murphy-Do you think you can maintain or improve on your career numbers last year?
12:45 Troy Murphy:  Yeah, I've worked harder this off-season, so I'm hoping to duplicate what I did last year.
12:45 Troy Murphy:  Thanks.
12:46 Pacers.com:  Roy Hibbert has joined us.
12:46
12:46 [Comment From Jeff]
What is one thing that fans can expect from this team this year.
12:47 Roy Hibbert:  A lot of hard work on the court. We're going to bring it every night.
12:47 [Comment From Jade]
What did you improve on this offseason?
12:48 Roy Hibbert:  I've been working on my strength and conditioning.
12:48 [Comment From Rex]
Hello Roy, we expect big things this year from you because of yourimprovement furing the last season. Do you think the refs just pick on rookies or did you see some film of why they called all those fouls?
12:49 Roy Hibbert:  I was in the wrong place at the wrong time sometimes. I've definately been working on my defense trying to limit those fouls.
12:49 [Comment From JayRad]
when is your next Roy's Life video coming out?
12:49 Roy Hibbert:  Does anyone really want to see another episode of Roy's Life? Because I don't.
12:50 [Comment From Dan]
Hey Roy, are we going to see more of the hook shot this year?
12:50 Roy Hibbert:  Yeah, definately. I've been working on the left and right and finishing in the post.
12:50 [Comment From Quinn]
What was your biggest surprise about the NBA during your rookie season?
12:50 Roy Hibbert:  

So many games in such a short time.

12:51 Roy Hibbert:  Come out and see us play. Not only when LeBron, Kobe and Dwight come to town, but every game. Thanks.
12:53 Pacers.com:  Solomon Jones has joined us.
12:53
12:54 [Comment From Sam]
I want to know what really gets you pumped up on the court. Do you love to hit the big shot? To set up a teamate? To snag a key rebound? To block a shot? To dunk on someone? What one thing you do on the court gets you going?
12:55 Solomon Jones:  

Defense, blocking shots, getting big key rebounds. Those things gets me and my teammates pumped up. I figure when we do that, our offense will take care of itself and then get us fired up on the offensive end.

12:55 [Comment From Dave]
Solomon What do you think you can add to this team to help us get back into the playoffs?
12:56 Solomon Jones:  

My defensive competitive edge; bringing that defensive presence; protecting the paint.

12:57 [Comment From Brad S.]
Hey Solomon welcome to the Pacers!!! Are you glad to b out of Atlanta so you can have a better chance of being successful in this league??
12:58 Solomon Jones:  

The NBA is all about changing and bettering yourself and I'm happy that Indiana has given me the opportunity to make me a better player.

12:58 [Comment From #10]
Solo - What one opposing player do you want to take it to this season?
12:58 Solomon Jones:  Not really one person, but every person I step on the court to play against.
12:59 [Comment From Dave]
Solomon, How did you spend your summer and how has the transition been to the Pacers thus far?
12:59 Solomon Jones:  I spent my summer mostly working out, trying to improve in every area of my game - both offensively and defensively. My transition has been pretty smooth thus far and hopefully it will continue with the help of the Pacers family and Pacers fans.
1:00 Solomon Jones:  Thanks for your questions.
1:00 Pacers.com:  

A brief break as we wait for the next player......

1:03 Pacers.com:  TJ Ford has joined us --- submit your questions.
1:03
1:03 [Comment From Johnny]
TJ - What is your favorite thing about Indiana as a whole?
1:05 T.J. Ford:  The fans are great and I enjoy playing for the Pacers.
1:05 [Comment From Brad S.]
T.J. how was your summer? Did you go anywhere exciting?
1:05 T.J. Ford:  My summer was great. I spent alot of my time in Houston. I also took a trip to Vegas.
1:06 [Comment From Steven B]
With Jack leaving to Toronto, and your experience in this offense, do we see you with significantly more minutes this season in the rotation?
1:06 T.J. Ford:  We'll see. I hope so.
1:06 [Comment From Jeffrey]
Who's the funniest guy on the team?
1:06 T.J. Ford:  Travis Diener.
1:07 [Comment From Newbie]
hi TJ! what's something TJ as an individual rather than TJ as part of a team needs to get from his coach or the fans to be successful? positive critique/constructive criticism or just a good old fashioned verbal thrashing to get you going? :)
1:07 T.J. Ford:  A little bit of everything, but definately the positivity is always better.
1:07 [Comment From Rob]
It was really neat that you called your fans this summer. Any plans for other fan intereaction ideas
1:08 T.J. Ford:  Yes. Make sure you stay tuned and also sign up to www.texas360now.com.
1:08 [Comment From Dan]
What's up TJ, What do you think of the team's defense going into this season?
1:09 T.J. Ford:  I think we're going to be better. We have a few new players and it will be easier for those guys to pick up the concept.
1:09 [Comment From Wayne]
Who's your favorite rapper from Houston? My guess is Devin the Dude.
1:09 T.J. Ford:  No, not Devin the Dude. But I will give you a few: Scarface, Lil' Keke, DJ Screw.
1:10 T.J. Ford:  Thank you for your time -- I hope you enjoy the season. Stay tuned and be a part of this successful season.
1:10 Pacers.com:  Tyler Hansbrough is here
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1:13 [Comment From jackson]
TH, saw you in your commercial for the lost puppy, how did that opportunity come about?
1:13 Tyler Hansbrough:  It's something that my agency put together and I was really excited about it. Thanks for the love.
1:14 [Comment From Mike L.]
Tyler, my in-laws live in the bluff, my son is a HUGE fan of yours. can you say 'hi' to Luke so I can print it out for him, he is in school now but wanted to 'chat' with you? Good luck this season, thanks
1:15 Tyler Hansbrough:  Luke, sorry you couldn't chat with me. Thanks for the support, hopefully you'll be able to catch some Pacers games this year along with everyone else in the Bluff.
1:16 [Comment From Speed]
Was summer league what you expected? Do you think you will be able to do some of the same things at the pro level (like getting to the line) that you did in college??
1:17 Tyler Hansbrough:  Summer league was a learning opportunity for me to get a feel how Coach O'Brien likes to run the offense/defense, so I had a chance to get a feel for how the Pacers do things. Hopefully I'll be able to carry over some of the success from the Summer League into the regular season.
1:18 [Comment From Mike L.]
Thanks T, follow you on twitter and hope your leg heals fine. Go get them this season.
1:18 Tyler Hansbrough:  Thanks to all my twitter followers for the support - hopefully I'll keep you up to date on everything going on my life and give you updates on my status.
1:19 Tyler Hansbrough:  Thanks for chatting with me, until next time. Hansbrough out!
1:19 Pacers.com:  Mike Dunleavy is now here.
1:20 Mike Dunleavy:  Hey guys. Hope everyone is doing well. I too am doing well. For those you wondering, my knee rehab is coming along great.
1:21 [Comment From Jade]
Mike! Are you bringing back the mustache this year?
1:22 Mike Dunleavy:  It doesn't appear likely, but I'm sure there will be some sort of facial hair anomoly.
1:22 [Comment From Nathan]
Hey Mike, What are you looking most forward to when you get back to playing?
1:22 Mike Dunleavy:  Not having to wear a suit to games.
1:23 [Comment From Speed]
Great Blogs by the way, loved The Hangover. Any chance we see you opening night Vs Miami?
1:23 Mike Dunleavy:  To quote Lloyd Christmas, "I'm telling you there's a chance".
1:23 [Comment From Bill]
Mike -- I love the blog at pacers.com. I have some suggestions for the fake names you use at hotels on the road. Stevie Janowski (Kenny Powers' best friend) or Wes Mantooth from Anchorman. Thoughts?
1:24 Mike Dunleavy:  Wes Mantooth has already been used by Jeff Foster. Stevie Janowski is a possible candidate. Thank you for the suggestions.
1:24 [Comment From Stacy]
Are you making the trip to China with the team?
1:25 Mike Dunleavy:  I'm planning to go to China with the team unless I lose my passport between now and then.
1:25 [Comment From Alex]
Did you get to see inglourious basterds this year? if so, did you like it?
1:26 Mike Dunleavy:  I didn't see it, but I'm looking forward to catching up on a lot of movies on road trips this season.
1:26 Mike Dunleavy:  Thanks for chattin. Look forward to seeing you at Conseco Fieldhouse this year. Cheers!
1:28 Pacers.com:  

That wraps it up. Thanks to all the fans who participated and submitted questions during this live chat. Go Pacers!

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