About his time in Sierra Leone:
"People say they prayed for me every single day. We were greeted with dances, cheers and tears. It was a life-changing experience for me. They struggle, yet they still have joy."
About his health:
"I feel fit and fierce. My health is tremendous. I have no worries about extra work. Before, I never wanted to overwork. I always wanted to do more, but I was coming back from injuries. I can do whatever I want on the court without second-guessing now."
About his offseason work:
"I want to be Ron Artest. I want to be that guy you fear when you see him guarding you."
About his new coach:
"I couldn't be more ecstatic about the decision. He's very organized. He knows what it takes to win. He wants to be the champion. That falls into the category of the Stoudemire brand and also the Phoenix Suns brand. We want to be champions, whatever it takes to do it."
About the Suns upcoming season:
"Expectations are higher than they've ever been. As I improve and I get better, we get better. I have no problem putting the total weight and everything we have on my shoulders. If we lose, I have no problem taking that burden. If we win, just make sure you guys give props where props are due. We're ready."
That all sounds great. Really does. It’s truly honorable and worth noting the change that he is trying to make in people’s lives outside of this country, for those in need. He’s helping to build water wells for goodness sake. Can’t hate on a man like that. In fact, might have to retract my Shaq-lite comments a bit. Although, Shaq has been known for his generosity.
But, hoops-wise, one thing I didn’t hear him talk about is his desire to be like Reggie Evans. If Amare doesn’t learn to box out, it doesn’t matter what else he does or tries to do. The defense will suffer.
Why? Cuz the Big Piece of the Puzzle, a.k.a. Shaq, doesn’t box out either. And Shaq ain’t trying to be like anyone but Shaq.
But, at least it sounds like Amare’s trying to get better at D.
Only time will tell if it’s all talk.
And, just for the record, I will give props when props are due. I’ve been itching to give this kid props for 7 years now.
Keywords: Amare Stoudemire, Phoenix Suns, Shaq
