The 6-foot-5 guard/forward (keep reading) is anticipating big things this season at Kansas State. “The Beast” speaks in this week’s installment:
1. If you had a theme song, what would it be?
Lil’ Wayne (with Playaz Circle), “Duffle Bag Boy”
2. How have you adjusted to playing for your fifth coach in five seasons?
I’ve adjusted well. I know Coach Martin. This is probably the most comfortable adjustment I’ve had.
3. Which K-State coach did you enjoy playing the most under?
I’d have to say Coach Huggins right now. But I know for a fact the things Huggins has instilled in Coach Martin, and it’s going to be a wonderful year. Coach Martin will be the best or most enjoyable I played for, judging by the number of wins we get.
4. Any one newcomer the fans will be surprised, aside from Mike Beasley?
I think they’ll be pretty surprised by all of them. What one doesn’t have, another one does. … You’re going to be surprised at how athletic Andre Gilbert is. He’s going to be a big key. He’s jumping with the rest of them. … They’re going to be surprised at how good of a shooter Jacob Pullen is, surprised at how quick Fred Brown is.
5. What part of your game have you been working on the most this off-season?
Really my jump shot, especially my range. I feel like I was mostly shooting the mid-range jumper last year, but I’ve stepped it up outside. Coach Martin said he’s going to play me mainly at the ‘2’ or ‘3’ because I’ve convinced of that, that I can handle it. They already know I have the heart, ability and strength. … But this is what my position is. K-State hasn’t seen me play that position because we’ve never had a post player. But they’ll see this year.
(BONUS) 6. If you’re penciled in at the ‘2’ or ‘3,’ care to predict a starting five?
That’s not my position, but Coach Martin will put this five best players on the court at a time. That will help us, and that should give people an understanding of what we’re going to do this year.
As always, keep the suggestions and questions for a future ‘Five’ coming. Peace, y’all.