Nov. 10, 1999
#21 Tayshaun Prince
“The only thing we can do is go out and play our best. We need to learn from the first exhibition game. If we learn from the mistakes of that game, we will go out and play better.”
On this year’s team compared to last year’s team:
“Both teams came in and practiced hard everyday. The freshmen are keeping face and learning things to make progress. Their talent keeps them going as practice goes on.”
On the team’s camaraderie:
“Everybody is close to each other. Everyone gets along well. It helps a lot to be close on and off the court. It helps when someone is down to have that bond.”
#42 Jamaal Magloire
On the chemistry of the team:
“The freshmen and even the sophomores are doing well. They are asking questions and are excited about playing and being a part of this unit. This gives us a better chance of winning.”
“Coach Smith has been very patient. He knows this is a very young team and he is patient because he sees the potential and camaraderie of this team.”
“I think I have always loved the opportunity to win games. I have never been in a situation where I thought of myself as a loser. I have lost games, but everyone loses games. I think I have a lot to offer this team with my experience.”
“I am anxious to play. It seems like it’s been a year when it’s really only been eight or nine days. I am ready to play the game tomorrow and start the regular season.”
On Marvin Stone:
“He has great potential and talent. He asks questions and shows a lot of maturity and interest. He wants to win and do well. Sometimes it is hard to make the adjustment to college but he has done it well.”
#10 Keith Bogans
“I think we’re a young team, and when you have a lot of young players come together well it makes the team more like a family. I’m working on learning the offense, which is a lot to learn. I’ve got to learn to slow down and be patient with my game.”
“I like the new challenges that college basketball brings to my game. Things are a lot different in college. I can’t really take over like I did in high school and run the floor. In high school I was one of the top guys, but in college, everyone comes from that type of background.”
“We don’t really worry too much about the rankings. Once the season gets started and people get to see us out on the court, I’m sure we’ll move up into the top 10.”
#11 Saul Smith
“I think what we most need to improve is our overall game. We need to take care of the ball a lot better and play better defense. When guys are blocking your shots that means that someone is getting beat off the dribble. We can’t afford to let that happen.”
“The freshmen are by no means as good now as they will be at the end of the season. A season under the belt is the best thing for a freshman. Your coaches and teammates can only teach you so much. What you learn after a season on the court is invaluable.”
On the play of Jules Camara:
“Jules has only been playing the game of basketball for about three years. How far along was I when I had only been playing for three years? Jules is blessed with tremendous athletic ability. With his limited experience, situational mistakes will be made.”
