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Written by: Autobilia



What’s the best thing about playing in Canada?
The best thing about playing in Canada is that we are the only NBA team in Canada. 

 
How do you (an outstanding scorer and player) feel about Ken O'Neil's all out defensive system?
Defense is a huge part of Kevin O'Neill's coaching philosophy.  I have no problem working with that. 

 
It is obvious that the Raptors lack a big man!! Who do you think would be a good fit in Toronto just to rebound and block shots?
There is not one particular big man who can fill that role, because there are a lot of great "Big Men" out there.

 
Even though you are extremely talented as a player, does life as a NBA star ever get to you? Whether it's the endless travel or the pushy press, is there anything that turns you off to being a celebrity?
Sometimes this life does get to you, but you get used to it.  It is difficult to be yourself and have your privacy. 

 
What emotions were you going through the weekend you had your graduation ceremony from North Carolina and had to play the Sixers in game 7 of the playoffs?
I was proud to be a part of the ceremony and receive my degree.  I was shocked that people questioned my decision to go to North Carolina and get my degree. 

 
Who do you think would be your toughest opponent in a 1 on 1?
Obviously, Shaq would be my toughest opponent one-on-one.  I also think Kevin Garnett would present a few problems. 

 
What 03-04 season rookie do you think will have the biggest impact on the game over a 5 year stretch?
I can't pick just one, so I am going to stick with the top three rookies:  LeBron James, Carmello Anthony, and Chris Bosh. 

 
About “the dunk” in the Olympics, what was going through your mind at the time after the dunk was completed?
I didn't know that I actually jumped over the Frenchman until the game was over, and I looked at the tape of the dunk. 

 
What Coach or player had the most influence on you in your career? 
I would have to say it all started with my high school coach, Charles Brinkerhoff. 

 
Do you play video games? If so, which ones do you like best?
Yes, I do play video games.  My favorites are NBA Live 2004 and John Madden Football 2004. 

 
Do you collect cards of yourself?
I collect cards, but not of myself. 

 
How do you feel about signing autographs? I know a lot of athlete have mixed feelings.
I have mixed feelings about signing autographs, because some people use the autographs to make money. 

 
Could you tell us a little about the Vince Carter Basketball Academy and Summer Jam?
The basketball academy held in both Toronto and Daytona Beach gives children the opportunities to learn basketball and study skills.  The Summer Jam is a host of events to raise money for my Embassy of Hope Foundation.  In 2004, events will include a "black tie optional" gala, bowling and a golf classic.

 
What advice would you have for young players entering the league?
My advice to young players entering the league would be to ask questions when they are uncertain about something and find a veteran to guide them through tough times and situations. 

 
Do you listen to music before the game to get you hyped up? If so, what do you listen to?
I do listen to music before games, but I don't have a particular song.  I just listen to whatever is in the CD player. 

 
How does it feel playing with Jalen Rose and Donyell Marshall and Lonny Baxter and what do you think the Raptors need to win a championship?
I think they are a great asset to the Raptors.  We still need a big body in the middle to have a chance at a championship. 

 
In your opinion, who do you think is the best guard in the game and why?
I believe that Allen Iverson is the best guard in the league because of his quickness and ability to shoot the ball from outside. 

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