One-on-One with Trevor Ariza

After one season at UCLA, Trevor Ariza declared himself eligible for the NBA Draft. Projected to be a late first-round or early second round selection, Ariza is confident he will be able to contribute to a team. Suns.com chatted with the 18-year-old forward and got his thoughts on the pre-draft workout process and his chances of making it in the NBA.

Suns.com: How did today’s workout go?

Trevor Ariza: It was real good. I thought I did all right.

Suns.com: How has the workout process been going for you?

Ariza: It’s been an experience. I’ve enjoyed because I got to see different places, different things and see how teams do stuff, so that’s cool.

Suns.com: What is it like to work out for NBA executives and coaches?

Ariza: You just pretend like nobody’s there, that’s how I do it.

Suns.com: What would you say are your major strengths on the basketball court?

Ariza: I can see the floor really well. I’m not a selfish player. It’s fun to help assist other people score. I’m a team player.

Suns.com: How close are you to being ready to play in the NBA?

Ariza: I think I’m ready now. If I can get a little stronger, I think I can be a pretty good player.

Suns.com: Do you feel you can come in and contribute right away?

Ariza: That’s my goal. I think I can do that.

Suns.com: What areas do you feel you need to work on most?

Ariza: Getting my shot more consistent and strength. I’m going to keep shooting and stay in the weight room, that’s all I can do.

Suns.com: Do you have any regrets about leaving UCLA after one year to enter the NBA Draft?

Ariza: I feel that I’m doing what I’m supposed to do to get what I want and I feel that I’m doing a pretty good job at it. Everybody’s going to have their say, but I don’t let them determine what I do.

Suns.com: Where will you be on draft day?

Ariza: I’ll probably be at home, I have no idea. We’ll see what happens. I’m excited about it, but we’ll see what happens.