What’s up everybody. A few weeks back, I tried something a little different and asked you to submit questions on social media for a mailbag. You guys did not disappoint! I got a ton about a variety of topics, so many that we’re definitely going to be doing these on a regular basis moving ahead.
(Make sure you’re following me on Twitter and Facebook to ask your questions next time around if you aren’t already.)
On to your questions…
What pressure did you feel (if any) after signing the huge contract, and what did you do in order to rise and exceed expectations
— Joe House Stan (@shakesphere__) June 16, 2017
I didn’t feel any pressure. I felt more pushed than anything else. I was more goal-oriented, and hungry, so to speak. I credit my success, obviously to God and then to my health. I knew as long as I had a healthy year I could showcase what I was capable of.
Who’s the best PG in the East? And best backcourt in the NBA?
— Nick (@NickSanzone) June 16, 2017
I feel like I’m always answering this one. John and I feel like we are. We play on both ends of the court. We compete our tails off. We come out and showcase our talents. We’re confident in ourselves. We’re not going to say another backcourt is better than us. It’s just not how we’re made. We believe in ourselves, we’re confident in ourselves. That’s just how we are.
Favorite part about DC and/or playing for the Wizards?
— Brian Paul (@D1str1ct13) June 17, 2017
I feel like D.C. is a sports town. It’s a true sports town. They love their teams. They show love and support. They want success and they’re really passionate about it. I think that’s what I love the most. So they’re very supportive. But they’re down to earth. I feel like we have some really good fans.
What do you feel when you see someone with your jersey?
— Jonathan Millard (@jonemillard) June 16, 2017
That’s always an unbelievable feeling. I’m still kind of in awe of it, to be honest. When I see that, it makes me that much more appreciative of who I am and what I’ve accomplished. And it also makes me what to work harder for sure. I’m trying to get better constantly and give kids a reason to wear my jersey.
What do you realistically think the 2017-2018 season has in store for you personally, as well as for the team?
— Noah (@Noah_Elias) June 16, 2017
I’m still laying out my own goals, but as far as the team goes, we want to reach the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals and win a championship. We’re going to do everything in our power to do so.
Going into the offseason. What areas of your game are you wrking on?
— ¥ $ $ € (@YoungCochise) June 16, 2017
Everything. Every little thing I can. Nothing I do is perfect. I’m looking to get stronger. Definitely working on my ball-handling and my shooting, being able to shoot threes off the dribble a little bit better. Catch and shoot better. And my lateral quickness to be able to guard quicker guys, guard point guards and defend multiple positions. Just want to improve my strengths and definitely improve my weaknesses as well.
How did you become a very dangerous and consistent scorer?
— MHP ⚜️ (@malik06_20) June 16, 2017
CONFIDENCE.
How much has working with coach Drew Hanlen helped your game?
— Justin B 😎 (@j_bailey0) June 16, 2017
A lot, I’ve been working with Drew since my junior year of high school and each year I’ve gotten better. I’m still working with him to this day, so that says it all. In fact, for those who asked about my shooting and workout routine if you follow @PureSweat on Twitter, I guarantee you’re going to find pretty much every drill that I do.
Who are your favorite players who’s game you attempt to emulate?
— Jay (@Maddliberator) June 16, 2017
Almost everybody that plays or has played my position. I’m constantly watching film, trying to learn and take things out of their book and apply it to my game the best way I can. Because my game isn’t a finished product and there are other guys who’ve played my position who are very skilled and talented, so whenever I can take some things from what I see watching other guys, I’m taking full advantage of that.
Favorite player/role model growing up???
— Fim Oshin (@TheRealOshin97_) June 16, 2017
I would say Allen Iverson. I loved AI because he always had a chip on his shoulder, always wanted to play hard. He just loved basketball and had a huge passion for it. His swag to the game was unbelievable. I felt like he brought culture to the game. He brought a lot of things a lot of kids look up to. He’s part of the reason I wear number 3. I was also a huge fan of his game, the way he could score the ball, the way he could facilitate and get guys involved. He was unbelievable for me and definitely my favorite player.
Thanks for all the questions, everyone! If you have questions or ideas for a future mailbag or blog, please post them in the comments below!
Is a hotdog a sandwich?
How do you feel about the job Ernie Grunfield has done building this team since you been in the nba???#EG
Have you read this open letter to you and the rest of the Wizards?
http://nerdswole.com/2017/05/16/an-open-letter-to-the-2016-2017-washington-wizards/
At what age did u start playing basketball
Do you see yourself with the wizards your entire career
What’s your favorite restaurant in or place to hang out in DC?
What midset do you have to have to overcome a unfortunate injury mid season?
When it’s all said and done and you look back at your career, what do you want to have accomplished in all aspects of ball and life?
Have you already developed an entrepreneurial mindset to utilize some of your earnings to secure your future/legacy?
Who are a couple of your mentors in basketball and outside of basketball? What is some of the most valuable information you have received from them?